August 2009 (3)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/14/2009
Circa 1820 to 1830. OL: 55 - 1/2". BL: 39 - 1/4". TB: Octagon to round. LM: Flintlock. Original. PB: None. S: Curly Maple. Incise carving. Three silver inlays. This interesting Kentucky fowler is signed by "J. Demuth" who worked in Lancaster and later in Frederick, Maryland. There are several very unique features used on this fowling piece with its curly maple stock. There is a relief carved panel around the entire trigger guard and the wrist carving is extremely unique in that its relief carving simulates "roping" and therefore is above the surface. All of the brass components are well-engraved and also unique. The ramrod ferrules are "carved and serrated" at each end and there is a "diamond" piercing in the tang of the buttplace at the juncture of heel and the tang. In addition, a very interesting toe-plate surrounds the underside of this rounded understock at the toe of the buttplate. Most uniquely, there is a brass barrel band as the nose-cap which is actually inset. Although the three silver inlays are modern replacements, this piece is still in its original flintlock condition. The barrel has been cleaned and has some light pitting. This gun can be improved, surface-wise, to bring it to a first-class level and is very worthy of doing so.