May 17, 2022 Early Arms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/17/2022
Circa 1770-1780. Petitjean began his unmaking career in Belgium, but obviously later relocated to England, where he adapted his style to a more traditional British approach. He was obviously a skilled engraver and extraordinary mechanic. This pair of ornate flintlock pistols marked are both marked "#43" on the breeches, as well as "H. PETITJEAN". The fully rifled barrels swivel by pulling back the trigger guard and both barrels feature pans and frizzens. Both sets of breeches are stamped on one side with private London view and proof marks as well as crown over "F" markings. This denotes that Petitjean was a foreigner to the gunmaker's guild. The boxlock actions are stepped and engraved with scrollwork on both sides. Both pistols have tang safeties. The walnut grips are profusely inlaid with silver wire scrollwork and the sterling silver pommel caps feature grotesque masks. CONDITION: Excellent with original polished surfaces, showing little use and nearly no wear. Actions are tight and function properly. Some silver wire is loose or raised on both pistols. A very fine and rare pair of silver-mounted swivel breech pistols. DMG
Caliber/Bore
(BOTH) .50 Rifled
Manufacturer
(BOTH) H. Petitjean
Model
(BOTH) Swivel Breech