October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
This fowler has a two stage iron barrel with an indistinct proof on the top flat near the breech. There is also a French proof mark on the left flat near the breech. The flat lockplate has beveled edges and engraved designs at the tail, in the center it is inscribed "antoine / robert". The lock has an unbridled pan. Standard French iron mounted trade furniture inscribed with shell designs and scrolls, flat cloud shaped sideplate engraved en suite. The trigger guard was replaced during the period of use with a French Model 1763 Charleville trigger guard. Full length walnut stock of early French form with relief beaver tail carved around barrel tang. The oval shaped wrist escutcheon is now absent. Complete with original wooden ramrod. CONDITION: Barrel retains a dark brown patina and shows some corrosion near breech. Lock also retains a heavy brown patina with clear engraving and markings. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and shows heavy use. Furniture all retains a dark brown patina. Stock retains a dark surface with some minor splinters missing along forend and about 21" have been professionally replaced. There is a significant amount of shrinkage around lock and some missing wood at the front tang. Stock has some scattered age cracks and marks from use. A very nice and very early French trade gun. PROVENANCE: Purchased from Brian LaMaster.
Caliber/Bore
.65 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Antoine Robert