GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
STIEGELE MARTINI SCHUETZEN RIFLE PRESENTED BY HIS MAJESTY LUDWIG II. CARL STIEGELE MARTINI SCHUETZEN 5017 8.15x46 Cal. 8.15x46. This early Stiegele also has some interesting history. On the cheek piece is an ornate silver inlay which reads "Ehrengabe Sr. Majestat Ludwig II v. Bayren zum 700 jahr." This translates to "Honor gift of his Majesty King Ludwig II of Bavaria to the 700th Anniversary of Kelheim." This rifle was donated to be the Honor Prize of the shooting match; a part of the festivities for the 700th Anniversary of the city Kelheim, celebrated in 1882. The fluted bbl is 30.25" long with Stiegele's name inlaid in gold with intricate additional decoration in gold and platinum. The bbl has a cleaning rod attached, a common feature in early rifles. The bbl is also fluted in a simple design. The orig front and rear sights are with the rifle. The bbl sight is missing. The action is profusely engraved on both sides, each with a fat cherub and their dogs with an owl. The underside of the action is engraved with Diana the Huntress. The engraving, typical of these very best rifles, is of unsurpassed quality. The buttstock has a large silver inlay previously discussed. Both sides of the buttstock are finely carved in a geometric pattern with a dog on one side and a stag on the other. The sides of the forearm are fairly plain and checkered, a roebuck is carved on the underside. This rifle was one of two, the other the Ivory Stiegele, which won a display award at an American Society of Arms Collectors meeting. This rifle is shown in James Grant's book More Single Shot Rifles. PROVENANCE: "Alte Scheibenwaffen" Vol. 2 pgs 190-192; "Classic German Target Arms" pgs. 68-71; The Allen Hallock Schuetzen Collection. CONDITION: Very minor dings & dents in the wood from handling. Almost all the orig finish is present. The finish on the bbl is also in very fine condition. Bore is excellent. 50900-2 TWR (8,000-15,000)