GUN SPRING 2016
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/14/2016
UNUSUAL CHRISTOPH FUNK EARLY BREECH LOADING GAME GUN WITH VERY FINE RELIEF ENGRAVING.C. FUNKSXSNSN16 GACal. 16 ga. 2-1/2" Chambers. 28" Striking deeply etched Bernard bbls are inlaid in gold "CHRISTOPH FUNK IN SUHL" on raised, matted rib. Bbls are choked cylinder and full. Round bodied action with long strikers housed in top portion has evolved from needle-fire guns, has scrolled underlever actuating round bolt which engages hole in boss on bottoms of breech ends of bbls in the manner of guns of Daw''s patent. A unique sliding safety bolt is installed in right fence which has dual push-button detent, locking it in either fire or safe position. Action is beautifully relief engraved with full coverage of well executed Germanic scrolled acanthus surrounding full relief game scenes; a fox with captured bird in mouth is on left side of action, and a doe is on right. Portrait of a dog is on top strap. An exceptionally fine portrait of stag and hind are on top of striker housing. A relief engraved buck is on trigger guard. All engraving is within gold wire inlaid borders. Horn trigger guard extension forms short hooked grip, rear portion scroll carved. Beautifully marbled and nicely fiddle figured European walnut buttstock measures 14" over plain horn buttplate. Stock features a relatively large swept right hand cheekpiece, and point pattern flat top checkering. Fully checkered captive forend mounts to bbls with captive side nail through oval silver escutcheons. PROVENANCE: Consignors notes regarding the history of this gun and its maker, along with specifications. CONDITION: Fine, as refinished. Bbls retain nearly all of a bright polish on very deeply etched pattern for dramatic effect. Action is cleaned to silver gray. Stocks retain nearly all of a fine hand rubbed oil finish, checkering competently re-cut. Horn of buttplate appears to be a well done replacement (does not match horn of top spur). Bores are very fine, with some light pitting and frosting. Action is tight. An unusual offering by this highly regarded German maker. 49746-1 MGM167 (4,000-6,000)