August 2009 (3)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/14/2009
Circa 1830 to 1840. OL: 55 - 1/4". BL: 39 - 1/2". TB: Octagonal. LM: Flintlock. Obvious re-conversion and replaced. PB: 4-piece. S: Curly Maple. Incise carving. One silver inlay. This Kentucky rifle signed "Nicholas Beyer" is one of his slightly later rifles but has almost perfect condition with the exception of the replaced flintlock. It still retains its original varnish finish, his easily recognized "bird plucking its feathers" patchbox finial, and a simple but pleasing incised carving behind the cheekpiece. Nicholas Beyer, who was the apprentice of the master gunsmith J.P. Beck, was still working in the 18th century manner. The fine curly maple stock is highly attractive, as is the overall architecture.