Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Saturday, May 18, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
to bid until the live auction begins!
Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Premier Firearms Auction - Day 2

Saturday, May 18, 2024  |  9:00 AM Central
to bid until the live auction begins!
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Large variety of antique and modern firearms to be sold over three days. Read More http://www.rockislandauction.com
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Pg : 13 of 27

19th Century Gallery Air Gun by J. Bandle of Cincinnati, Ohio

Lot # 1300 (Sale Order: 301 of 674)      

19th Century Tip-Up Barrel Underlever Gallery Air Gun by J. Bandle of Cincinnati, Ohio

"J. BANDLE/260 MAIN ST." and "CIN. O" marked on the top barrel flat. Tip-up octagon barrel that releases with a bottom latch and loads from the breech. Trigger guard pulled downwards, serving as the cocking lever in order to fill the cylinder air reservoir, and upon pulling the trigger the spring loaded piston releases. Chambered in approximately .28 caliber/7 mm with a smooth bore. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/093" hanging from the trigger guard lever. Similar examples are photographed and described on page 99 of "Blue Book of Airguns, Thirteenth Edition."

Class: Other

Very good, the barrel exhibits a mix of refinished brown finish and brown patina with some patches of light surface corrosion, partially worn maker markings, and the brass exhibits a golden aged patina. The reoiled stock is also very good with numerous scattered scratches and handling marks, and recut checkering. The stock is slightly loose fitting. Mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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19th Century Tip-Up Barrel Underlever Gallery Air Gun by Sieber

Lot # 1301 (Sale Order: 302 of 674)      

19th Century Tip-Up Barrel Underlever Gallery Air Gun by R. Sieber

"R. SIEBER" marked on the top barrel flat. No further information was located on this maker at the current time, although this example was likely American made. Tip-up octagon barrel that releases with a left side latch and loads from the breech. Trigger guard can be pulled downwards, serving as the cocking lever in order to fill the cylinder air reservoir, and upon pulling the trigger the spring loaded piston releases. Chambered in approximately .34 caliber/8.5 mm with a smooth bore. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/1384" hanging from the trigger guard lever. Similar examples are photographed and described on page 99 of "Blue Book of Airguns, Thirteenth Edition."

Class: Other

Good, with a mix of applied brown finish and darkened brown patina and some light surface corrosion. Added ring to the front of the trigger guard/cocking lever. The wood is very good, with scattered scratches and handling marks. Absent rear sight notch. Oversized replacement barrel pin. The trigger guard/cocking lever is loose, otherwise mechanically fine.

Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

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Documented Sebastian Fischer Engraved Percussion Schuetzen Rifle

Lot # 1302 (Sale Order: 303 of 674)      

Rare Documented Sebastian Fischer Engraved Percussion Schuetzen Rifle

This is a rare early percussion rifle that's featured on pages 66-67 of "The American Percussion Schuetzen Rifle" by Hamilton and Rowe. It is fitted with a heavy octagonal target barrel with 15/16 inch round front section made for a false muzzle, (rifle also includes an unfinished brass bullet starter). The top barrel flat is engraved: "SEB: FISCHER NEW YORK". It is fitted with the original fine scroll engraved lock plate that is fitted with a scroll engraved, "dolphin head" hammer. The lock plate is also engraved "SEB: FISCHER NEW YORK". The rifle has an adjustable tang mounted target rear peep sight; a large windage adjustable rear sight and a small blade front sight (both of the later are on the barrel). The tang, the lock plate, hammer and three finger silver sculptured trigger guard all feature, matching fine scroll engraving. It is fitted with a one-piece walnut half-stock that has hand-cut checkering in the grip area and a hand carved "wolfs head" forend tip. The wolf's head is fitted with glass eyes. The stock has a Germanic/Swiss small style cheekpiece with a two-prong Schuetzen style German Silver buttplate and a matching 3-finger Schuetzen trigger guard. The rifle is fitted with double set triggers, a single barrel wedge.

Class: Antique

Fine as period refinished with 80% of the blue finish on the barrel. The barrel has aged to a dark brown tone with areas of light pitting and spotting that have been cleaned and finished over, scattered light dings, and some light surface scratches. The action and hammer have aged to a gray patina with some darker mottled areas, light handling marks, and clear markings. The wood is fine with handling marks on the forearm, well defined checkering at the wrist, small indentations throughout, and a repaired crack at the wrist. Mechanically very good.

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Wurfflein of Philadelphia Half-Stock Percussion Sporting Rifle

Lot # 1303 (Sale Order: 304 of 674)      

Finely Engraved, Gold/Silver Banded, and German Silver Mounted Half-Stock Percussion Sporting Rifle by Wurfflein of Philadelphia

The Andrew and John Wurfflein were German immigrant gunmakers working in Philadelphia c. 1840s-1860s and were followed by William Wurfflein. This stunning rifle is signed "WURFFLEIN PHILADA" in ornate script amongst the floral engraving on the top of the barrel. The rifle is very similar to the Andrew Wurfflein rifle shown in figure 5 of the American Society of Arms Collectors article "The Wurffleins of Philadelphia: Artisans at the End of an Era" by Ronelle Willadsen. The rifle is accompanied by the listing from when this rifle was sold in N. Flayderman & Co., Inc.'s catalog 118 as item 2541. The rifle is certainly one of the finest made by the Wurffleins and features dovetailed blade and notch sights, a German silver band at the breech end of the barrel, three gold bands on the breech plug, elaborate scroll and floral engraving on the upper tang and back action lock, adjustable single set trigger, German silver furniture with floral and scroll engraving, an interesting patchbox that has a German silver lined interior, and a very gracefully shaped walnut half-stock with finely checkered wrist and very attractive oval cheekpiece.

Class: Antique

Fine with a mix of fading original brown finish and dark patina along the barrel, brown patina on the lock, light pitting and oxidation mainly at the breech, attractive aged patina on the German silver, crisp engraving throughout, and fairly minor overall wear. The stock has some repaired cracks at the edges of the forend but is otherwise also fine and has crisp checkering and light scratches and dings. Mechanically fine.

Provenance: N. Flayderman & Co., Inc.; Property of a Gentleman

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John Wurfflein Philadelphia Half-Stock Percussion Sporting Rifle

Lot # 1304 (Sale Order: 305 of 674)      

Fine John Wurfflein, Philadelphia Half-Stock Percussion Sporting Rifle

John Wurfflein was a talented gunmaker working in Philadelphia c. 1844-1864. The barrel has a dovetailed blade front sight, screw adjustable sporting rear sight, "JOHN WURFFLEIN PHILADA" on top of the breech section, and a "5" just ahead of the breech plug on the right. The back action lock is signed "J. WURFFLEIN". The rifle is equipped with double set triggers. The stock has a nicely shaped cheekpiece, a checkered wrist, and German silver furniture.

Class: Antique

Fine with a mix of fading original brown and smooth patina on the barrel, light case colors on the breech plug, smoky gray patina on the lock and upper tang, and aged patina on the furniture. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering, minor scratches and dings, a very faint hairline crack at the breech on the left, and fairly minor overall wear. Mechanically fine.

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Cased Joseph Egg Over/Under Flintlock Pistol

Lot # 1305 (Sale Order: 306 of 674)      

Historic and Absolutely Spectacular, Cased, Engraved, Gold-Inlaid and Silver-Mounted Joseph Egg Over-And-Under "Baby" Flintlock Pocket Pistol Made for the Future King George IV while Prince Regent

Famed London gunmaker Joseph Egg (1775-1837) was the nephew of Durs Egg and is particularly noted for his fine over-and-under pocket pistols, affectionately known to collectors as "Baby Eggs." This example is truly extraordinary both in terms of its condition and its provenance, the first owner being Prince George Augustus Frederick (1762-1830) while Prince of Wales and Prince Regent circa 1818 prior to his being crowned King George IV. Egg is also known to have made other pistols for Prince Frederick Augustus (1763–1827), Duke of York and Albany, and members of the aristocracy. A similar pistol from the W. Keith Neal Collection is illustrated in W. Keith Neal & D.H.L. Back, "British Gunmakers: Their Trade Cards, Cases, and Equipment", plates 348-349, and a pair from the J.F. Hayward Collection is held in the Collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London (accession number: M.2802&A-1931). Rock Island Auction Co. sold one of the later pistols with percussion cap ignition in 2019. Many of George IV's fine firearms were held within the Carlton House Armoury and remain in the Royal Collection at Windsor. With blued tapering octagonal barrels, the upper barrel is signed "-J*EGG*LONDON-" in gold with a silver blade front sight and a gold band and gold clouds inlaid at the breech end. The lower barrel is inscribed "No 1 Piccadilly London" and is inlaid with dual gold bands at the breech end. Each barrel is smoothbore and has a platinum-lined vent, and a blued ramrod with checked tip is fitted to the left side. The standing breech features a notch rear sight, floral patterns, and a feline mask. Each flat beveled lock plate is signed "JOS- EGG- PATENT" and features a rainproof priming-pan, scroll and sunburst engraving, external mainspring that also serves as the frizzen spring, a sea serpent design on the base of the elegantly shaped cock and sliding blued safety catches. The right lock fires the upper barrel, and the left fires the lower barrel using a single trigger. The silver trigger-guard and pommel-cap have fine foliate engraving. The pommel is surmounted by a gold cap engraved with the Royal coat of arms, and the gold wrist escutcheon is engraved with a coronet. The figured walnut butt has a finely checkered grip. The pistol is housed in a velvet-lined leather case with gilt borders and a "POTEFER/GAINIER/Quai de L'horloge No 73/A PARIS." marked label. Purchased by Norman R. Blank from the Wilfrid Ward Collection at Christie’s, 27 October 1993, lot 91.

Class: Antique

Excellent with 98% plus original blue finish on the barrels with a few slight spots of minor oxidation staining, bright gold, light aged patina on the silver, bright platinum vent liners, vibrant blue on the springs, top-jaws and jaw-screws, attractive case colors, right cock professionally repaired, firing wear on the frizzens, and light handling and storage wear. The stock is also excellent and has crisp checkering. Mechanically fine. The case is fine with minor age and storage related wear mainly on the exterior which has been sunned along with some contact staining on the lining. This is a truly extraordinary pistol. These distinctive "Baby Egg" pistols are always desirable, but the pocket pistol of the future King George IV is truly special.

Provenance: King George IV; The Wilfrid Ward Collection; The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Cased Pair of John Manton & Son Flintlock Dueling Pistols

Lot # 1306 (Sale Order: 307 of 674)      

Very Fine Documented Cased Pair of Engraved John Manton & Son Rifled Half-Stock Flintlock Dueling Pistols -A) Manton Dueling Pistol

Very Fine Documented Cased Pair of Engraved John Manton & Son Rifled Half-Stock Flintlock Dueling Pistols -A) Manton Dueling Pistol
Serial number 6126 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Mantons: Gunmakers", p. 92 as a "Pair of Single Barrel 48 Bore Dueling Pistols Cased" dating from 1816 and noted as owned by "N. Blank, U.S.A." This pair was exhibited at the NRA in 2004. The Damascus barrels are rifled and fitted with blade front sights and inscribed "---DOVER STREET---" on the top flat. The casehardened recessed patent breeches each have a platinum band and vent liner and platinum-lined "MANTON/& SON/LONDON" maker's mark. The casehardened standing breeches each incorporate the blued notch rear sight and have foliate engraving. The casehardened flat lock plates are each signed "John Manton & Son" in script and have a rainproof priming-pan, large frizzen spring roller, blued sliding half-cock safety, and engraved sunburst and foliate motifs. The pistols each have blued mounts engraved with mainly foliate patterns, including stylized pineapple motifs on the trigger-plate finials. The wedge and wrist escutcheons are silver. The half-stocks each have a dark horn forearm cap and checkered bag-shaped butt. The serial numbers are marked on the trigger-guard bows among the engraving and are struck on the underside of the barrels and breech hooks. There are no proof marks. In fitted mahogany case with green baize lining, John Manton & Son trade label inside, matching numbered ball mold also marked "46", red leather wrapped two-way powder flask, and loading/cleaning rod. This pair was purchased from W. Keith Neal in February 1963 by Norman R. Blank.

Manufacture: Manton
Model: Flintlock
BBL: 9 3/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 40 Bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: 6126
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine with 80% plus old original brown twist finish, 60% faded original casehardened finish on the lock, 85% original case colors on the patent breech and standing breech, bright platinum, aged patina on the silver, 85% original blued finish on the trigger guard and mounts, some faint oxidation with a patch of deeper pitting at the breech, and crisp engraving and markings. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering, light scratches and dings, and minor handling and storage wear. Mechanically excellent. The refinished case is fine with external storage scratches, some wear and staining to the otherwise fine lining, and exceptional original gunmaker label. Flask and mold are fair.

B) Manton Dueling Pistol
See "A."

Manufacture: Manton
Model: Flintlock
BBL: 9 3/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 50
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: 6126
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine with 75% original brown twist finish with a patch of pitting towards the breech, 60% original faded case colors on the lock, 85% original case colors on the patent breech and standing breech, bright platinum, aged patina on the silver, 95% plus original blue finish on the trigger guard and mounts, and otherwise light handling and storage type marks. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering, a few light dings and scratches, and minor handling and storage wear. Mechanically excellent. Overall, a very desirable pair of John Manton & Son rifled dueling pistols.
Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Cased Pair of John Manton Flintlock Dueling Pistols

Lot # 1307 (Sale Order: 308 of 674)      

Documented Cased Pair of Gold Inlaid John Manton Flintlock Dueling Pistols -A) Manton Dueling Pistol

Documented Cased Pair of Gold Inlaid John Manton Flintlock Dueling Pistols -A) Manton Dueling Pistol
Serial number 2127 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Mantons: Gunmakers", p. 68 and is noted as a "Pair of Single Barrel 36 Bore Duelling Pistols" dating from 1793 and noted as owned by "N. Blank, U.S.A". Neal and Back further describe the pistols as "The butts have flat sides and are chequered all over. Hair triggers are fitted, and the words on the barrels are in gold. Both the touch-holes and the flash-pans are gold-lined, and the hammers are fitted with rollers to run over ridges on the feather springs. The barrels are hair rifled." This pair was exhibited at the NRA in 2004. The Damascus barrels have faint "hair" or "scratch" rifling designed to give the pistols greater accuracy without being easily detected, silver blade front sights, dovetailed notch rear sights, "---MANTON-LONDON---" in gold inlay on the top flats, a gold band at each breech, gold vent liners, and the serial number and London proof marks struck on the undersides. The serial number is also struck inside the forearms and on the breech hooks. The locks have stepped tails, sliding safeties, "-MANTON-" signed at the centers, rollers on the frizzens, and gold-lined priming-pans. The mounts are blued steel and feature foliate and martial trophy engraving and stylized pineapple finials. The silver wrist escutcheons have a rampant lion crest. The pistols are equipped with single set triggers and are fitted with walnut full stocks with checkered slab-sided butts and later wood ramrods with dark horn tips. In associated relined and refitted mahogany case, the lid with reproduction John Manton & Son trade label, with some accessories. Sold at Christie’s on 8 December 1959, almost certainly to W. Keith Neal who subsequently sold the pair to Norman R. Blank.

Manufacture: Manton
Model: Dueling Pistol
BBL: 10 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 36 bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 2127
Class: Antique

Condition: Fine with distinct markings and engraving, bright gold, much of the period rebrowned finish mixed with dark brown patina and Damascus patterns along the barrel, pitted overall, chipped top of frizzen, light original case colors and dark gray patina on the lock, 30% original blue finish remaining on the mounts, dark aged patina on the silver, and minor overall wear. The stock is good with a split and repair on the right side of the forearm, numerous light dings and scratches, and crisp checkering. The safety is broken, but the pistol is otherwise mechanically fine. The case is good and has mild age and storage related wear including some mothing and staining of the lining and a crack across the lid.

B) Manton Dueling Pistol
See "A."

Manufacture: Manton
Model: Dueling Pistol
BBL: 10 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 36 bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 2127
Class: Antique

Condition: Very good with distinct markings and engraving, bright gold, mix of period rebrowned finish and dark aged patina long the barrel, pitted overall, faded original case colors and gray patina on the lock, chip at the top of the frizzen, 50% original blue finish on the mounts, dark aged patina on the silver, and mild overall wear. The stock is also very good and has crisp checkering and numerous mild scratches and dings, repaired beneath lock. Mechanically fine. A classic cased pair of late 18th century English dueling pistols by innovative London gunmaker John Manton.
Provenance: The W. Keith Neal Collection; The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Cased John Manton & Son Flintlock Double Barrel Shotgun

Lot # 1308 (Sale Order: 309 of 674)      

Cased John Manton & Son 20 Bore Flintlock Double Barrel Shotgun

Serial number 7623 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Manton Supplement", p. 65, as a 16 bore double barrel shotgun from 1820 with 30 inch barrels and "1819" inscribed on the silver wrist escutcheon. This shotgun is also noted as owned by "N. Blank, U.S.A." The barrel length listed in the book includes the patent breeches, and the bore listed in the book is incorrect. The Damascus barrels have a concave rib with a bead front sight, "John Manton & Son Dover Street" signed at the breech end, platinum-lined and banded patent breeches with sunburst engraving on the rib that extends onto the breech end of the barrel rib. The engraved standing breech has a grooved rear sight. The locks each have John Manton's rainproof priming-pan and frizzen covered by patent No. 3942 from July 21, 1815, and include the platinum powder dividing bar. The engraved locks are signed “John Manton & Son/PATENT” and the frizzens are each signed "JNO MANTON & SON/PATENT", and have large rollers on the frizzen springs, stepped tails, and beveled edges. The steel mounts have coordinating engraving as well as stylized pineapple finials. The trigger-guard is squared off at the front. The wedge and wrist escutcheons are silver. The varnished figured walnut stock has a checkered wrist. With green baize lined fitted mahogany case with Manton trade label and some later loading and maintenance equipment.

Class: Antique

Very good with a period re-browned finish and dark aged patina along the barrels with light maker signature, mostly dark gray and brown patina on the locks and mounts, aged patina on the silver, sharp and distinct markings and engraving. The very good stock has softened checkering, attractive figure, small divots and dings, a repaired crack above the nose of the lock on the right, a substantial chip visible on the left at the nose, and an old blanking screw to the underside of the butt where a sling swivel mount was once fitted. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are worn with some age and storage related wear, the case lid and partitions becoming loose. Manton double barrel shotguns were among the very best in the late flintlock era and continue to be highly sought after by collectors today.

Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

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John Manton Flintlock Single Barrel Shotgun

Lot # 1309 (Sale Order: 310 of 674)      

Documented Engraved and Gold Inlaid John Manton Flintlock Single Barrel Shotgun

Serial number 2838 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Mantons: Gunmakers", p. 73 as a 15 bore shotgun dating to 1797 and noted as owned by W. Keith Neal. Neal & Back note that the gun had a 34 inch single barrel, London proof marks, and "The flash-pan, which is semi-rainproof as above, and touch-hole are gold-lined. The barrel words are in gold. The barrel is fitted with a plug, and not a patent breech." The multi-stage smoothbore Damascus barrel has a silver bead front sight, "---MANTON * LONDON---" in gold inlay on top, "2838" between London proof and view marks on the underside, a gold band at the breech end, and the noted gold-lined touch hole. The serial number is repeated on the breech plug hook and inside of the forearm. The flat beveled lock has a stepped tail, "MANTON" signed at center, the noted gold-lined semi-rainproof pan, and a roller on the frizzen. The mounts is iron and includes a large stylized pineapple finial on the trigger-guard and floral, bird, and dog motifs. The walnut half-stock also has a green horn forearm cap, a checkered wrist, a vacant gold oval wrist escutcheon, and a raised cheekpiece. The wooden ramrod is fitted with an iron worm and horn tip.

Class: Antique

Fine with nearly all of the period re-browned finish remaining on the barrel which displays distinct Damascus patterns and bright gold-inlaid markings, band, and vent liner. The lock has faded traces of original case colors and gray patina. The mounts exhibit mainly gray patina with some mild oxidation staining. The markings and engraving are distinct throughout but rubbed on the heel-plate tang. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering, minor cracks at the breech, light scratches and dings, and smooth finish. Mechanically excellent. An attractive John Manton flintlock shotgun dating to the late 18th century formerly in the famous W. Keith Neal Collection before being purchased by his good friend Norman R. Blank.

Provenance: The W. Keith Neal Collection; The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Early Purdey Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun with Maple Stock

Lot # 1310 (Sale Order: 311 of 674)      

Incredibly Early Documented Engraved Purdey Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun with Purdey Patent Safety Sears and Incredibly Rare and Beautiful Birdseye Maple Stock

One of the earliest and rarest Purdey percussion guns ever offered: serial number 424, a 14 bore double barrel shotgun with a stunning curly maple stock from the 1820s. The gun was recently inspected by Purdey’s, and they confirmed this gun is the only Purdey gun known to be in private hands that is stocked with a spectacular piece of birdseye maple. The only other example known is a single barrel gun that resides in the Purdey collection in London and features many of the same components with generally similar engraving. Both guns may have been stocked using wood cut from the same maple blank, and the consignor indicated the blank is rumored to have been supplied by Colonel Peter Hawker (1786- 1853), an admirer of Purdey’s guns. Col. Hawker was also an acquaintance of Alexander John Forsyth who patented the percussion cap. The single barrel birdseye maple gun is featured in Patrick Unsworth's "The Early Purdeys" in colour plates 7-12, and the current double barrel gun is listed in "Appendix 3: Shotguns" on page 183 as a double barrel with 'Patent safety, the grip-lever since removed. Percussion cap gun. Maple stock. Now in Australia." The single barrel gun is also shown in plates 9 and 10 of "Purdey Gun & Rifle Makers: The Definitive History" by Donald Dallas. Thomas Boss, Robert Bagnall and Henry Atkin were all stockers for Purdey in the 1820s, and Peter Gumbrell is noted as the shop's engraver in this period. The gun is accompanied by information from past sales of this incredible gun, including a letter from H.G. James, manager for Donald Mackintosh in Melbourne, Australia, writing to a Mr. A. Berry of Victoria Valley, Tasmania, in 1929 about the gun and noting "You could hardly believe the number of shooters that have admired the stock of the gun" while it was on display in a glass case in the shop. Additional handwritten documentation indicates the gun was sold to a Mr. J.A. Wilson by A. Berry (believed to be Alfred Berry) and notes the best loads for the gun. A subsequent letter from 1940 to Wilson from C. Gatenby indicates that he purchased three muzzleloading guns from gunmaker G.E. Lewis of Birmingham, England, c. 1895-1896 and noted that the Purdey "had the prettiest stock of any gun I ever saw, and I have handled a few in my time. It was made of maple, and French polished; when the sunlight was caught on the right angle it was glorious." He later sold the gun to Farquhar McRae of Hartfield-Bothwell.The Damascus barrels have a raised concave rib with a small bead front sight and is signed with the Princes St. Leicester Square address towards the breech end. The barrels were forged by Charles Lancaster and have his "CL" maker's mark on the underside between the London black powder proof marks which are in turn followed by the serial number. The rib on the breech plugs features a vignette of a dog, and the breeches feature platinum bands and pierced platinum plugs. The standing breech has scroll engraving. The locks and hammers are engraved with serpent designs and scrollwork. The locks are each signed "PURDEY" and have the patented automatic half-cock safety sears with "SAFETY" marked on the sears and "PATENT" on the lock plate. The iron furniture also features scroll, foliate, and sunburst engraving, and the trigger guard bow also features a pair of pheasant. The wedge and wrist escutcheons are silver. The beautifully figured birdseye maple straight hand stock has checkering on the forend and wrist and a 14 9/16 inch length of pull. Includes a wooden ramrod with brass tip.

Class: Antique

Very good with light gray and brown patina, faint Damascus twist patterns on the barrels, rubbed rib signature, distinct lock markings and engraving, grip safety removed, some light pitting mainly on the bolsters, some aged patina on the silver, and general mild wear from honest use. The period refinished stock is also fine with lightly worn but visible checkering, some small repairs and thin cracks, light scratches and dings, and very attractive birdseye figure with excellent contrast. Mechanically fine. This is a very attractive and rare early Purdey percussion double barrel shotgun that clearly has been well-loved and well-traveled. This is your opportunity to add the only known Purdey with a maple stock in private hands in your collection!

Provenance: James Purdey; George E. Lewis; The Christopher Gatenby Collection; The Farquhar McRae Collection; The A. Berry Collection; The J.A. Wilson Collection; Property of a Gentleman

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Cased John Manton & Son Percussion Double Barrel Shotgun

Lot # 1311 (Sale Order: 312 of 674)      

Fine Cased Panel Scene Engraved John Manton & Son Percussion Double Barrel Shotgun

This classic English percussion shotgun from the famous Manton family dates to c. 1845-1849 based on the matching serial number 11880 marked on the trigger guard, underside of each barrel, breech plug hooks, and forend. The underside of the Damascus barrels also have "J.M" and London proofs, and the concave rib has a bead front sight and "John Manton & Son, Dover Street, London" in script. The casehardened patent breeches have pierced platinum liners and scroll engraving which also continues on to the standing breech along with a hare. The locks are signed "JOHN MANTON & SON, PATENT." and have scroll and pheasant scene engraving. The silver wrist escutcheon is blank. The blued steel furniture has scroll and game scene engraving, including a dog and pheasant scene on the trigger guard bow, quail on the trigger guard tang, and a dog pursuing a fleeing pheasant on the buttplate tang. The stock has a checkered forend, silver wedge escutcheons, tear drop flats, checkered wrist, and 14 3/8 inch length of pull. It comes in a fitted case with green baize lining, a John Manton & Son trade label, and loading and maintenance equipment, including a powder flask, shot flask, and a removable wood compartment in the lower right corner with sliding lid and sack of cards inside.

Class: Antique

Fine. The engraving and markings remain crisp. The silver had attractive dark aged patina. The barrels retain 60% plus original finish and distinct Damascus twist patterns and have fading to smooth brown patina. Traces of case colors remain, but the casehardened components otherwise display smooth gray patina. The trigger guard and buttplate retain strong original blue finish in protected areas and otherwise display smooth gray patina. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering, mild wear, and some attractive figure and grain in the butt. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are also fine and have generally minor age and storage related wear. Overall, a very attractive Manton double barrel shotgun.

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Cased Pair of John Manton & Son Percussion Dueling Pistols

Lot # 1312 (Sale Order: 313 of 674)      

Exceptional Cased Pair of Engraved John Manton & Son Percussion Dueling Pistols -A) Manton Dueling Pistol

Exceptional Cased Pair of Engraved John Manton & Son Percussion Dueling Pistols -A) Manton Dueling Pistol
John Manton was amongst the finest gunmakers in London during the late 1700s and early 1800s and was particularly known for fine dueling pistols and sporting arms. This pair of pistols dates to circa 1840. The serial number "11179" is on the bottom of the barrels, in the barrel channel of the stocks, on the breech hooks, on the inside of the locks, and on the trigger-guard tangs. Serial number 11179 is listed in W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, "The Mantons: Gunmakers", p. 113 as owned by "N. Blank, U.S.A." and identified as a "Pair of Single Barrel 38 Bore Duelling Pistols Cased" and as having "hair rifled" barrels. The "hair" or "scratch" rifling in the barrels is distinct but is only visible upon inspection with a light. The browned Damascus barrels have blued dovetailed blade and notch sights, are signed "John Manton & Son Dover Street London" in script on the top flat, and are struck with London proof marks on the underside. The casehardened breeches have pierced platinum plugs and feature scroll engraving which extends to the casehardened standing breeches and locks, and the blued mounts. The detented flat locks are signed "Jno. Manton & Son Patent" in script and have blued sliding safeties. The triggers are single set. The stocks have dark horn forearm caps, silver barrel key escutcheons, silver wrist escutcheons, and nicely checkered butts. In associated green baize lined fitted mahogany case, the lid with a John Manton & Son trade label, with accessories including bullet mold, red leather wrapped powder flask, and loading rod.

Manufacture: Manton
Model: Percussion Dueling Pistols
BBL: 9 3/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 38 Bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/silver/blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 11179
Class: Antique

Condition: Exceptionally fine with 95% plus of the original brown finish, 80% original casehardened and blue finishes remaining, dark aged patina on the silver, and minimal light handling and storage marks. The stock is very fine with crisp checkering, a few slight dings and scratches, and a very slight hairline crack at the lock screw. Mechanically excellent. Associated case is very good with a slightly chipped and cracked lid, scattered external handling and storage marks, lock damaged, some age staining to fine original lining, both compartment lids cracked, and the otherwise very fine trade label lightly stained.

B) Manton Dueling Pistol
See "A."

Manufacture: Manton
Model: Percussion Dueling Pistols
BBL: 9 3/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 38 Bore
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: 11179
Class: Antique

Condition: Exceptionally fine with 95% plus of the original finish, 85% original casehardened and blued finish remaining with flaking on the trigger-plate finial, some slight speckling on the barrel, edge wear on the upper right towards the muzzle, dark aged patina on the silver, and minimal light handling and storage marks. The stock is very fine with crisp checkering, some light scratches, and a ding by the standing breech. The trigger does not set, otherwise mechanically functions fine. John Manton's dueling pistols have been coveted by collectors for generations, and this stunning pair from the Norman R. Blank Collection has been hidden away for decades. Do not miss your opportunity now!
Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Presentation Cased T.E. Mortimer Percussion Belt Pistols

Lot # 1313 (Sale Order: 314 of 674)      

Historic and Extraordinary Presentation Cased, Engraved, and Silver Inlaid Percussion Belt Pistols by Thomas Elsworth Mortimer with Inscriptions to John W. Orr from the Masters in the Scottish Naval & Military Academy in 1849 -A) T.E. Mortimer Percussion Belt Pistol

Historic and Extraordinary Presentation Cased, Engraved, and Silver Inlaid Percussion Belt Pistols by Thomas Elsworth Mortimer with Inscriptions to John W. Orr from the Masters in the Scottish Naval & Military Academy in 1849 -A) T.E. Mortimer Percussion Belt Pistol
The smoothbore browned Damascus barrels are fitted with dovetailed blued blade front sights, captive ramrods, and signed "T.E.M. EDINBURGH." The breeches, flat locks, and furniture are scroll and border engraved. A blued belt hook is fitted to each pistol. The varnished walnut stocks have dark horn forend caps, silver wedge escutcheons, checkered wrists, and ornate silver shield-shaped escutcheons inscribed "Presented/TO/Mr. John W. Orr/By the MASTERS of the/Scottish/NAVL & MILY ACADEMY/1849" in the center, "Thos. Compton./Geo. Lees./J. Mackie./F. Senebier./G. Surenne." on the left, and "W. Graham./D. Liston./Geo. Roland./Geo. Simson/Jas. Trotter." on the right. The pair is contained in their original fitted oak case with Thomas Elsworth Mortimer trade label, purple velvet lining, and loading and maintenance equipment, including a loading/cleaning rod with covered worm and jag attachment, tampions, T.E. Mortimer cap tin, nipple wrench with pick, punch, screwdriver, three-way combination flask, cylinder with spare nipples, "WD" and "No 17" marked ball mold, balls, and key. The case lid escutcheon is inscribed "JWO", and the plaque inside the lid is inscribed "A FAREWELL EXPRESSION OF REGARD/FROM/THE MASTERS IN THE/Scottish Naval and Military Academy/TO/Mr. John W. Orr./On the Completion of his Course of Study/AT THAT ESTABLISHMENT".The inscribed silver wrist inlays and case plaque indicate the pair was presented to John W. Orr by the masters of the Scottish Naval & Military Academy in Edinburgh for his graduation from the academy in 1849. Captain John Orr (1790-1879) was the superintendent of the academy when the set was presented to his son in 1849. Captain Orr was a veteran officer who fought in the Peninsular War and was severely wounded in the leg while fighting in the 42nd Highlanders (Black Watch) at the Battle of Waterloo. John William Orr (1829-1916) was his second son and studied at the academy and then moved through the ranks in the Indian Army from ensign in the 19th Madras Native Infantry in 1850 to lieutenant colonel by 1876 and major general in 1890. He served in the Second Burmese War in 1852-1853 and Indian Mutiny of 1857. His elder brother, James, also served in the Indian Army and became a major general.

Manufacture: Mortimer & Son
Model: Flintlock
BBL: 7 5/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 58
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine overall with nearly all of the re-browned finish and distinct Damascus twist patterns, most of the fading original case colors, 70% original blue, polished silver with light patina, crisp engraving and markings, minor pitting, and general age and storage related wear. The stock has crisp checkering and a few minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are very good and have age and storage related wear, a separated seam on the flask, pitting on the mold and punch, and some loose or repaired dividers.

B) T.E. Mortimer Percussion Belt Pistol

Manufacture: Mortimer & Son
Model: Flintlock
BBL: 7 5/8 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 58
Finish: brown/casehardened/blue/silver
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine overall with nearly all of the re-browned finish and distinct Damascus twist patterns, much of the fading original case colors, 60% original blue, polished silver with light patina, crisp engraving and markings, spots of minor pitting, and general age and storage related wear. The stock has crisp checkering and light dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.

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Cased Pair of J. Boussart Liegoise Percussion Dueling Pistols

Lot # 1314 (Sale Order: 315 of 674)      

Very Fine Cased Pair of J. Boussart Liegoise Percussion Dueling Pistols with Accessories -A) J. Boussart Pistol

Very Fine Cased Pair of J. Boussart Liegoise Percussion Dueling Pistols with Accessories -A) J. Boussart Pistol
Manufactured around 1860-1880 in Liege. Marked "J. Boussart a Liege" in Gothic script on top of the barrels, Boussart's "JB" hallmark on the bottom of the barrels along with the intertwined "EL" proofmark, small letters, and "9.4" The other components have tight scroll work engraving. They come in a hardwood case with French style fitted interior lined in purple velvet with bullet mold, two round wooden boxes, screwdriver, nipple wrench, mallet, powder measure, and bore rods. The case lid has an "MA" or "AM" monogram.

Manufacture: Belgium
Model: Percussion
BBL: 10 inch octagon
Stock: ebony
Gauge: 40
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine. The barrel retains 98% plus of the period refinished blue finish and has some minor oxidation and edge wear. The remaining components retain 85% plus original casehardened finish and have some slight scratches and light patina. The stock has crisp checkering and a few light handling and storage marks. The accessories are fine with mild storage wear. The case is fine and has moderate storage wear including cracks in the lid and bright purple in the protected areas of the sun faded lining which is otherwise aged to brown or camel tones. Overall a very fine set.

B) J. Boussart Pistol
See A.

Manufacture: Belgium
Model: Percussion
BBL: 10 inch octagon
Stock: ebony
Gauge: 40
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Very fine with 98% plus period refurbished blue and minor edge wear on the barrel, 80% plus original case colors on the remaining components, some minor oxidation, and general handling type marks. The very fine stock has crisp checkering and some slight scratches.

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Cased Pair of Lelyon of Versailles Percussion Dueling Pistols

Lot # 1315 (Sale Order: 316 of 674)      

Cased Pair of Lelyon/Lelion of Versailles Percussion Dueling Pistols -A) Lelyon/Lelion Percussion Pistol

Cased Pair of Lelyon/Lelion of Versailles Percussion Dueling Pistols -A) Lelyon/Lelion Percussion Pistol
The pistols have brown Damascus rifled barrels, casehardened remaining metal surfaces, set triggers and fixed sights. The breech plugs and barrels near the front sights are marked "1" and "2" respectively. The top barrel flats have "LELYON A VERSAILLES" in gold, and the lock plates have "LELION/A VERSAILLES" in gold inside a gold oval. The reason for the two different spellings for the maker's name remains unknown. The hammers, lock plates, side plates, barrel tangs and spur triggers have a floral engraving. The trigger guards have ornate finials that match the engraved motif. The barrels are secured to the stock by a single wedge without escutcheons. The half stocks have multi-point checkering on the grip and flared butts with casehardened floral blossom engraved caps. The French fitted case has brass corner protectors and trim and a brass monogrammed oval on the lid. The accessories include ramrod, bore rod with powder measure, slotted metal cleaning rod, double cavity wooden container, screwdriver (handle has cavity but missing threaded top), touch hole pick, oiler, casehardened bullet mold, ornate double face powder flask, mallet and case key.

Manufacture: French
Model: Percussion
BBL: 9 1/4 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 50
Finish: brown/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Very good. The barrel has 40% of the original twist pattern remaining with the balance a gray patina with a few patches of light pitting. The remaining surfaces retain 90% original case colors with areas of a protective coating. The stock is fine with a number of minor pressure dents around the barrel wedge and some minor handling marks overall. The checkering is crisp overall. The action needs work as the trigger does not set. The case is very good with some missing brass trim, few missing pieces of veneer, missing decorative piece on the front side of the lid, worn lining and minor handling/storage marks.

B) Lelyon/Lelion Percussion Pistol
As described in A.

Manufacture: French
Model: Percussion
BBL: 9 1/4 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 50
Finish: brown/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Class: Antique

Condition: Very good. The barrel has a bright gray patina with traces% of the twist pattern remaining and a few patches of light pitting. The remaining surfaces retain 75% original case colors with areas of a protective coating. The stock is fine with a number of minor pressure dents around the barrel wedge and some minor handling marks overall. The checkering is crisp overall. The action needs work as the hammer does not hold at the half cock position.

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French Wender Flintlock Sporting Gun by Thuraine

Lot # 1316 (Sale Order: 317 of 674)      

Engraved and Relief Carved Late 17th Century French Wender Double Barrel Flintlock Sporting Gun by Thuraine of Paris

This fine Parisian turnover sporting gun was made circa 1685 and restocked and partially remounted during the 18th century. It features two-stage octagonal to round smoothbore barrels each with brass blade front sight, elaborate engraving and chisel work with floral scroll patterns inhabited by a mask and a figure, "THURAINE A PARIS" signed on the sighting flat, and blued finish. Rounded back-action lock engraved and chiseled in low relief with scrollwork and a figure holding a ribbon signed "THURAINE A PARIS", with scroll engraved individual priming-pan and frizzen assemblies for each barrel. Barrel release catch chiseled in the round with a bestial head. Later engraved trigger-guard and heel-plate, the latter with the serpent finial reminiscent of Claude Simonin (see Stephen V. Granscay, "Master French Gunsmiths' Designs", p. 76) and later figured walnut stock. The wrist escutcheon is silver with a coronet and masks. With a wooden ramrod with bone tip. This gun was purchased from W. Keith Neal in February 1962 by Norman R. Blank.

Class: Antique

Fine with mostly gray patina on the barrels, bright lock and mounts, wear to high points of chiseled decoration, and rubbed engraved decoration on heel-plate. The refinished wood is very good and has attractive figure, carved ornamentation worn, scattered handling marks overall, some losses around the mounts and mechanism inletting, and a hole by the trigger-guard finial. Mechanically fine. A rare opportunity to get your hands on a very attractive French flintlock swivel breech sporting gun.

Provenance: J.F. Hayward; The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Ornate Flintlock Sporting Gun by Les La Roche

Lot # 1317 (Sale Order: 318 of 674)      

Ornate Gold Inlaid, Engraved, Silver Mounted, and Relief Carved Single Barrel Flintlock Sporting Gun by Les La Roche Aux Galleries a Paris

Jean-Baptiste la Roche was gunmaker to Louis XV and received lodgings in the Louvre in 1743 and was later joined by his son Jean who succeeded him in 1763. Together they signed their guns with the plural "Les La Roche." Several examples of their work can be found within major institutional collections in Europe. Dating to the mid-18th century, this fine example has a slender smoothbore barrel with blued finish, gold inlays and highlighted accents including a bursting grenade motif on top at the breech, gilded fluting, "LES LA ROCHE AUX GALLERIES A PARIS" signed in raised gilt letters, a rounded silver blade front sight, and a burnished steel tang with lined borders and foliate engraving. The rounded lock is signed "LES LA ROCHE A PARIS AUX GALLERIES DU LOUVRE" along the bottom edge and finely engraved with a sporting trophy on the tail. The silver mounts are cast and chased with rococo ornament and are struck with Parisian hallmarks. The well figured full stock has moldings and foliate scroll carving, a green leather comb-pad, and silver wire inlays framing the side-plate. The ramrod has a silver tip. It is accompanied by an undated certificate of authenticity from F. Theodore Dexter for Norman R. Blank. Norman R. Blank acquired this gun from W. Keith Neal in November 1959.

Class: Antique

Fine with much original gold-inlaid ornament remaining, aged patina to the silver mounts with some rubbing to high points, clear signatures and engraving, 40% of the original blue remaining on the barrel, pitting at the vent, silver-gray patina and some minor staining on the lock, and age related overall wear. The otherwise fine stock has repairs to the forearm, minor cracks and handling marks throughout, and mostly crisp relief carving. The cheek pad has minor age and storage related wear. Mechanically fine. This beautiful sporting gun from Jean-Baptiste and Jean le Roche perfectly exemplifies why they received patronage from King Louis XV.

Provenance: W. Keith Neal in November 1959; The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Small Scale Wheellock Sporting Gun with Scrimshaw Inlays

Lot # 1318 (Sale Order: 319 of 674)      

Small Scale Wheellock Sporting Gun with Scrimshaw Inlays

The smoothbore barrel has an "E" and an "eagle" stamped ahead of the notch rear sight on the ribbed breech section. The lock has another small "E" mark below the safety, an external wheel, and brass accented wheel cover. The stock has staghorn/bone inlays with scrimshaw designs, including deer, masks, and stars.

Class: Antique

Fine overall with silver gray patina, minor oxidation/pitting, and general mild age and storage related wear. The stock is also fine and has repairs visible at the toe, a crack at the breech on the left, some small chips, and mild overall wear. Not mechanically tested.

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Philip Mueller Wheellock Sporting Rifle with Hexagonal Barrel

Lot # 1319 (Sale Order: 320 of 674)      

Panel Scene Engraved and Relief Carved Philip Mueller Wheellock Sporting Rifle with Unusual Hexagonal Barrel

Philip Mueller is recorded in "Der Neue Stockel" as master gunmaker in Dresden and Warsaw c. 1733-1762 and also as an airgun maker after 1754. This rifle has a very unusual hexagonal barrel rather than a usual octagonal barrel. The barrel is installed so that one ridge runs along the top and another along the bottom. The barrel is rifled and has dovetailed blade and notch sights and is "PHILIP MUELLER" (upper left) and "A VARSOVIE" (upper right) and features scroll and border engraving that extends to the tang. The flat lock plate has an internal wheel, scroll engraving on the interior, and a detailed scene of two mounted hunters following a pair of hounds and a deer on the exterior. Towards the front of the scene, there is a grotto with a female figure inside and a putto on top, and there is an estate in the background. The scene has beaded borders with some scroll accents inhabited by bestial masks and figures. The dog has a filed and scroll engraving spring, scroll engraved stirrup, dog engraved on the arm, and a scene of a classical figure armed with a bow and arrows (likely representing Apollo) along with a dog and scrollwork inhabited by bestial motifs. The rifle has a finger groove trigger guard engraved with a stag scene and double set triggers, and the stock has scroll engraved staghorn, raised relief carving, and molding.

Class: Antique

Very good overall with gray patina, mild pitting, partially faded markings and engraving on the barrel and trigger guard, crisper engraving on the lock, and general mild overall wear. The period refinished stock is also very good and has some repairs such as a spliced repair at the forend tip, crisp carving, and mild scratches and dings. Lock not mechanically tested. The set triggers are mechanically fine.

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Brescian Flintlock Belt Pistol

Lot # 1320 (Sale Order: 321 of 674)      

Important 17th Century Brescian Flintlock Belt Pistol with Chiseled Mounts and Lazarino Cominazzo Barrel

Manufactured in Brescia, Northern Italy in the late 17th century. The three-stage smoothbore barrel bears the famous Italian barrel maker's signature “LAZARINO COMINAZZO” on the fluted breech section and has turned girdles dividing the sections, ribs, and a chiseled mask with the nose serving as the sight. The iron barrel tang is chiseled with foliate scrollwork and a further mask. The lock has elaborate chiseled designs including masks, a classical figure with a shield and sword chiseled in the round on the cock, and a further group chiseled in the round on the lock depicting Leda and the Swan, and foliate scroll patterns. It is signed on the top edge by the frizzen "G. Bat./Frani/Bcia" for Giovan Battista Francino. The figured full walnut stock has inset chiseled iron panels and mounts decorated with foliate scrollwork and additional grotesque mask motifs en suite with the barrel and lock, and chiseled and pierced grotesque-figure trigger, pierced trigger-guard finial, and a belt-hook. Fitted with a wooden iron-mounted ramrod.

Class: Antique

Very good with gray patina, chiseling clear with softening to high points, minor oxidation, and general mild overall wear. The stock has a replaced forearm with later ramrod and pipe and filled knot-hole in the butt, cracked around the lower rear edge of the lock mortise, scattered handling and age related bruising and scratches throughout. Mechanically fine. This is a very distinctive and desirable 17th century Brescian belt pistol displaying the region's renowned chiseled and pierced metal ornamentation.

Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

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Flintlock Pistol by Nicolas Noel Boutet at Versailles

Lot # 1321 (Sale Order: 322 of 674)      

Exquisite Gold Accented Rifled Flintlock Pistol by Directeur Artiste Nicolas-Noel Boutet at Versailles

Nicolas-Noel Boutet (1761-1833) was trained by his father, a royal gunsmith, and secured his place in the upper echelon of French gunmakers by marrying the daughter of his father's partner which allowed him to become gunmaker-in-ordinary to King Louis XVI in 1788. He became the artistic director of the arms factory at Versailles in 1792 and then the head director in 1798. Under his direction, some of the finest pieces of firearms art ever crafted flowed from Versailles. Napoleon was so impressed by his work that he granted a concession to Boutet for arms for 18 years, and Boutet continued to work in Paris after the Second Bourbon Restoration. This dueling style pistol by Boutet and the artisans of Versailles was most likely made as part of a pair of "pistols of reward." Fine pistols of varying degrees of ornamentation were manufactured at Versailles in the early 1800s under First Consul Napoleon Bonaparte for presentation to French officers as rewards for their valor and performance on the battlefield, and the higher ranking officers receiving most elaborate pistols. It features a swamped octagonal barrel with finely grooved rifling, dual gold bands at the muzzle and breech, a blade front sight mounted in a very fine slot, "Boutet Directeur Artiste" signed on the upper left flat, "Manufacture a Versailles" on the upper right flat, octagonal "NB" monogram on top over another "NB" mark along with "BC" on the upper left and "LC" on the upper right all with gilding, gilt vent, and a fine notch rear sight at the breech. The bright lock has beautifully sculpted components and is signed "Boutet/Directeur Artiste." The upper tang and furniture are also finished bright, and only the lock screw plate and the screws are engraved. The stock has a finely checkered wrist with molding and a flared pommel. The ramrod has a light horn tip.

Class: Antique

Very fine with 95% plus bright period refinished fire blue finish on the barrel along with nearly all of the gold aside from some minor loss mainly in the markings at the breech. The lock and furniture remain bright with light aging and minimal wear. The markings throughout remain crisp. The stock is fine and has crisp checkering, minor scrapes and dings, a very small tension crack on the left at the breech, and chip at the forend tip on the left. Mechanically excellent. Overall, a stunning pistol from Boutet during a very important period in French and European history.

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French Relief Chiseled Lutz Marked Smallsword with Gilt Hilt

Lot # 1322 (Sale Order: 323 of 674)      

Ornate French Relief Chiseled Lutz Marked Smallsword with Gilt Hilt

Reaching the pinnacle of its popularity in the late 17th century and early 18th century, the smallsword was an evolution of the rapier into a weapon that was more comfortably carried every day. During this period, most European gentleman of well-repute could be found carrying such weapons, both for protection and as an outward display of their status. Likely made in the 18th century, this specific example shows a level of ornateness that would be expected of a gentleman of high standing. It measures approximately 39 1/2 inches overall with a triangular cross section, hollow ground blade that measures approximately 33 inches. Both sides of the blade on the forte bear the engraved "Lutz" maker's mark as well as what appears to be their address/locations in French, and there are light flourishes of floral scroll above both markings. The hilt is extensively relief chiseled with floral and martial motifs, as well as neo-classical columns, with the background gilt filled. The guard is of the dual clamshell type with dual pas d'ane and a D-shaped knuckle guard. The grip shows the same relief chiseled motifs as the remainder of the hilt and the pommel is spherical. The scabbard is absent.

Class: Other

Very good, the blade is mostly bright with some scattered light speckling of grey patina and the some of the markings slightly softened with age. The grip is very fine with most of the elevated iron showing an attractive brown-grey patina and most of the gilt finish in the background remaining. This is a very attractive example of French craftsmanship from around the 18th century!

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French Coulaux Freres Royale du Klingenthal Smallsword

Lot # 1323 (Sale Order: 324 of 674)      

Beautiful and Elaborately Embellished French Coulaux Freres Royale du Klingenthal Colichemarde Blade European Smallsword

Reaching the pinnacle of its popularity in the late 17th century and early 18th century, the smallsword was an evolution of the rapier into a weapon that was more comfortably carried every day. This interesting example was manufactured c. 1814-1836 in Klingenthal, found in the Alsace region of France. The left of the blade near the guard is marked "Manuf/Royale du Klingenthal", while the left is marked "Coulaux/Freres", for the family that took charge of the royal forge there in 1801, purchased it from the government in 1836, and remained in charge of operations until its closure in 1962. This interesting example measures approximately 42 inches overall with a 34 3/4 inch colichemarde blade, which is defined by its wide forte which abruptly begins a taper that continues towards the point, as well as having a hollow-ground, triangular cross section. Blades of this type saw their widest popularity from c. 1680-1760, before trailing off rapidly due to their sinister association with duelling. This example shows traces of extensive bluing, gilding, and light engraving on the forte showing flags, arms, and floral motifs. The hilt is extensively embellished with relief arms, neo-classical, and floral motifs, as well as 18th century figures on a gilded background. The guard itself is of the coquille/shell type with dual pas d'ane, and a D-shaped knuckle guard. The grip is brass and copper wire wrapped and capped with a scent stopper type pommel embellished to match the rest of the hilt. The scabbard is absent.

Class: Other

Fine, the blade showing mostly a grey patina with traces of the blue and gilt finishes and some scattered patches of light surface pitting. The hilt is exceptionally fine retaining most of the gilt finish with the balance primarily a brown-grey patina. The pommel and guard are slightly loose while the wire on the grip remains mostly tight.

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Fine Silver Hilted Colichemarde/Small Sword

Lot # 1324 (Sale Order: 325 of 674)      

Fine Silver Hilted Colichemarde/Small Sword with 1722 Dated Hallmarks

The hilt has a "GW" silver smith mark and London hallmarks including the "G" date code for 1722. The 34 3/4 inch triangular and hollow-ground blade with the distinctive wide forte and narrow tip. This blade shape made these swords light and allowed for fast and accurate thrusts while still providing strength for parrying. They were popular from the late 17th century through the late 18th century with military officers and gentlemen although over the distinctive wide forte became less popular. George Washington had a somewhat similar sword following the French & Indian War that is featured in some of his portraits. They also appear in paintings of other gentlemen in the period, and these colichemardes were used in many 18th century duels.

Class: Other

Fine with attractive aged patina on the silver, somewhat loose but complete wire wrap, tight blade to hilt fit, some light oxidation staining on the otherwise silver-gray blade, distinct etched patterns on the forte, and crisp patterns on the hilt.

Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

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1.178.0.836.d2a4bd2.11.183