October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/23/2019
This extremely fine set of pistols is reminiscent of both Lebeda and Novotny. The octagonal barrels are fluted forward of fore end. Inlaid in gold "ED. KETTNER COLN RRH." Barrels are further decorated in inlaid silver with urns and dragon heads. The locks are superbly engraved with a winged naked angel firing an arrow which hits the target held by another winged angel. Bolted front action locks are finely shaped. Hammer is well engraved en suite with finely checkered hammer spur. Adjustable rear sight. Front of muzzle with gold band decorated in silver. Breech finely engraved with the head of Medusa. Spurred trigger guards are engraved with a naked male angel holding a bow and arrow. Butt cap engraved with foliage. Figured walnut full stocks are superbly carved at side plate, fluted at wrist. The forend is realistically carved with a dog's head, the eyes of glass with ebony pupils. CONDITION: Both pistols are in virtually identical phenomenal unfired condition. Barrels retain nearly all of their original brown finish. Pistols show little if any wear throughout. Actions are excellent. Set triggers work correctly. One hammer with minor chip at left of nozzle. Bores are excellent. Guns are cased in their original French fitted German silver bound case. Case is in good condition, with one large split across the lid. Lid lined in silk bearing the imprints of the pistols. Brown felt lining holding the pistols. Accessories consist of bright steel ramrod, mallet of wood, steel bullet mold, powder dipper, powder flask of violin form retaining nearly all its original finish, all the gilt to the spout, and brush. Case is missing one bullet mold and patch cutter. Accessories also consist of two sight wrenches and oil bottle. A truly handsome set of German percussion target pistols that would please the most demanding collector of late 19th century German pistols. MZ
Accessories
Case with cleaning and loading tools
Barrel Length
(Both) 10 - 1/2"
Caliber/Bore
(BOTH) .44 Rifled
Manufacturer
(Both) Germany