October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
This fowler is featured on pages 59-60 of "Accouterments V" by James R. Johnston. It dates to the mid-18th century. For an example with similar form and a nearly identical sideplate, see plate HV9 on page 141 of "Flintlock Fowlers" by Tom Grinslade. For an example with very similar carving see HV15 on page 147 of the same publication. Long, tapered barrel with brass front dovetailed blade sight and notched rear sight. Top flat towards breech with convex flute extending into tang. Left side of breech shows private English view and proof marks, as well as a series of bands. The rounded lockplate is decorated with scroll designs and features and early, unbridled pan. The frizzen has been relined during the period of use. The iron trigger features a rearward facing curl. Pierced brass sideplate with flat faces in a scroll pattern. Brass buttplate features an urn finial. The trigger guard has a fluted bow and terminates with an arrow at both ends. Early ramrod ferrules with ring turnings. The highly figured maple stock is of early form. There are relief carved panels around the lock and sideplate terminating at both ends with acanthus leaf designs. There are ornate symmetrical foliate designs around the barrel tang, on both sides of the trigger guard tang, and behind the ramrod entry ferrule. There is a relief molded border along the entirety of the ramrod channel. CONDITION: Overall, very good with a dark, untouched patina on all surfaces. The barrel retains a dark brown patina with some corrosion at breech and some areas of early blue finish. Lock is in its original flintlock configuration and retains a dark, heavy brown patina. Brass is unpolished and retains a dark mustard patina. Some minor splinters professionally replaced along forend, especially the last couple inches at muzzle. Ramrod is period and is probably original. A very fine, early, and highly carved Hudson Valley fowler in fantastic condition. PROVENANCE: Found in England in recent years likely taken back as a war trophy or by a New York Loyalist. Ex. Alan Para.
Caliber/Bore
.69 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Hudson Valley