September 20th 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/19/2015
14" barrel, .543boreThis pistol originates from Maastricht, Dutch Netherlands. These fine pistol was manufactured between 1640-1673 and were owned by royalty and was never fired. The lock is an exquisitely engraved wheel lock with a full two piece ivory stock. The separate butt section shows a helmeted Romanesque male face with upturned mustache. The animal side figures represent water demons while the rear section depicts a grotesque bearded humanoid giant monster. Based on the legend of Brabo and the giant Druon Antigoon, this originates from the Roman occupation of Germania and Gull in the 11th century. The ivory stocks show a few expertly repaired stress cracks. The engraving is delicate and finely executed by a master craftsmen befitting royalty. The engraving can be seen on the top barrel flat and tang while the most detailed of the engraving is found on the side plate. The butt has an engraved brass collar. The brass trigger guard is engraved and there is a brass thimble and forend tip. The rod itself is also carved from ivory. All metal surfaces are a smooth dark gray patina with usual aged freckling. The lock and wheel mechanism are as intricate as a swiss watch. One can only ponder the station or nobility of this weapons original owner as it would have been a treasured possession handed down from generation to generation. This example is one of the most magnificent examples of its type that has survived the ravages of time and war. Rarely do you see any weapon of this type with this degree of craftsmanship outside of a museum. It is our opinion that the accompanying photographs would do this pistol more justice then any printed word.
Correction: The stock is possibly later period.