(A) ALEXANDER HENRY 12 BORE HOWDAH PISTOL WITH CASE

The blued, somewhat heavy, side by side barrels have a wide, smooth sighting rib with a small bead sight. Rib is signed "A. HENRY, EDINBURGH". Underside of the barrel has Birmingham black powder proofs for 13 bore. 1 - 1/2" chambers. Round bodied rotating underlever action engraved with delicate borders. Peninsula locks engraved en suite with "ALEXR. HENRY" on each lock plate. Double triggers. Large, finely checkered saw handle grip with an engraved steel pommel cap with lanyard loop. A lovely "WL" monogramed gold shield is inlaid at the top of the saw handle. Corresponding checkered walnut splinter forend with ebony tip inlay, attached with a key. This wonderful howdah is housed in a period, very possibly original, leather wrapped partitioned case. The lid is impressed with the name "W. Livesay" (almost certainly the "WL" on the gun", as well as "J.M." and "W.H. SIM". The inside of the lid has an Alexander Henry, 12 South Saint Andrew Street trade label and a handwritten load label numbered to the gun. Case is lined in green felt with a modern replaced oak cartridge holder. One round of original ammunition is included. CONDITION: Fine. Barrels retain the vast majority of there period trade refreshed blue with some fading, scratches, and a few oxidation spots. Action displays strong and bright case colors in protected areas, the balance a pleasant patterned patina with a few scattered bright flashes of color, especially on the right side. Engraving is crisp. Checkering is also sharp with a minor flat spots. Stocks otherwise have some scattered light impressions and a small split on the left side between the frame and lock plate. Bore have some orange peel. Crisp mechanics. Case is sturdy and displays well. Liner has some expected staining and wear. A nice large bore howdah by a well known Scottish maker.

Name

Value

Accessories

Case

Barrel Length

7 - 1/2"

Caliber/Bore

12 Bore

FFL Status

Antique

Manufacturer

Alexander Henry