September 29, 2021 The Bill Myers Collection
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/29/2021
These strike a light pistols are extremely rare and were very expensive to manufacture due to the intricate mechanism that they use. At first glance, it appears to be a fine early Italian flintlock pistol. When the trigger is pulled one time, the brass 5-7/8" barrel quickly springs open to the left revealing a hollow cavity with a folding brass candle holder. When the trigger is pulled a second time, the candle holder springs upright and a brass stand pops down from the underside of the forstock allowing the piece to stand on its own and simultaneously light the candle. The barrel shaped compartment has a turned muzzle and the lid is engraved extensively with acanthus leaf motifs and foliate scrolls. Brass tang section engraved en suite. The early banana lock is engraved with borders and foliate scrolls, featuring beveled edges and an early faceted unbridled pan. The brass furniture includes a pierced and chased sideplate with foliate motifs and stippled areas. Both tangs of trigger guard terminate in acanthus leaves and trigger guard is engraved with foliate scrolls. Folding panel on forestock, which becomes a stand, is shaped and engraved en suite. On the top of the wrist, there is an engraved brass compartment with hinged lid and a sliding engraved iron release. Brass full stirrup pommel cap is also engraved. The plain walnut stock is relief carved behind the barrel tang with a symmetrical foliate motif. Relief panels around lock and sideplate terminate at both end in acanthus leaf designs. Relief cameo carving around trigger guard. Forend is profusely carved on both sides with relief foliate scrolls. CONDITION: Brass retains a pleasing mustard patina. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and functions well. Strike a light mechanism functions flawlessly. Pommel cap shows one dent on front of underside. Stock very good with one sliver missing on underside at muzzle. Some scattered dents and marks from use. A very rare and ornate piece. DMG