November 17, 2020 Early Arms & Militaria: Age of Exploration, Empire & Revolution
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2020
For another example with a similar patchbox, see rifle no. 32 on pages 60 and 61 of "The Lancaster Long Rifle" by Patrick Hornberger and John Kolar. Christian Gumph worked as a gunsmith in the borough of Lancaster. He is listed in 1792 as a "Reiffel Smith" and was a contributor to the 1794 arms contract organized by General Hand. This rifle has a 43" full-length .52 caliber smoothbore octagonal barrel, signed "C Gumph". The flat lockplate is unsigned and hand-forged in the German style with a molding at the tail. The rifle features double set triggers and brass furniture. The four-piece patchbox is engraved and has four piercings, two on each side of the lid. Trigger guard and sideplate are indicative of Lancaster County. The full length figured maple stock is of classic Lancaster form with incised scrolls around the comb and on both sides of the wrist. There is a molded cheekpiece on the left side with some incised carving below. The left side of the buttstock features large incised 'C' scroll designs. The wooden ramrod appears to be original. CONDITION: Barrel retains a spotted grey patina and signature is very good. Barrel shows edge wear and scattered marks. Lock is a good professional reconversion and functions properly. Brass furniture retains a dark mustard patina and shows some darker areas and scattered marks from use. Stock shows some wear, minor grain cracks, and some splinters repaired near the muzzle on the left side. A very attractive Lancaster rifle.
Caliber/Bore
.52 Smoothbore
Model
Flintlock Kentucky Rifle