October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
25" finely struck demi-bloc barrels are fitted with flat, matted, solid rib with small lunate extension. Left side of top barrel is engraved "DESENZANI & C. BRESCIA". Barrel flats are stamped with 1988 Italian nitro proofs, serial number, Desenzani logo, and finishers name "G. M. Gussago" (which is also stamped on action inner side, on interior of lockplates, and is gold inlaid in front of action pin under top lever). It appears Mr. Gussago is an outworking finisher to the trade, and is often described as having "Hands of Gold". Low profile, coin finished, over/under sidelock action features non-automatic safety (SICURA is in gold inlaid background), Holland and Holland type hand detachable locks, and single non-selective trigger. Action and locks are engraved with exceptionally well cut, classically styled rose and scroll. "DESENZANI & C" is on left lock, and "BRESCIA" on right, on scrolled ribands. Engravers signature "P. Parravicini" is on trigger plate. Single beaded trigger guard is relief gold inlaid with monogram "GP" on bow, and with serial number at grip. Striking, dark marbled European walnut round knob pistol grip buttstock measures 14 - 1/4" over checkered wood butt, and features small, rounded drop points, and closely spaced point pattern checkering with line borders at grip. Matching slim one piece forend with Anson type release has gold Desenzani crowned device flush inlet into central diamond. Original makers leather case with stitched leather corners, has rectangular brass plate on lid engraved "GEORGE PETROHILOS" "ATENE". Interior is lined in scarlet velvet, with black leather makers label in lid. Bottom is semi-French fitted for action, barrels, and a pair of snap caps. CONDITION: Excellent, Barrels retain over 95% original blue, silvered at muzzles, and along edges of rib, thinning on ejector bosses. Coin finish shows some darkening and a few minor spots. Stocks are excellent with evidence of light use. Bores are excellent. Action is tight. Barrels are on face. Trigger works. Case leather has some scuffing and some rubs, marks, and some shipping stickers. Straps and handle are good. Interior cloth is very good, with typical soiling and compressions. This little known Italian maker produces fewer than 12 world class hand made guns per year. TDW
Accessories
Leather Case with Snap Caps
Barrel Wall Thickness
(BOTH) .026
Choke
O .013 (Light Mod.) (U) .007 (Imp. Cyl.)
Internal Bore Diameter
(O) .729 (U) .728
Manufacturer
DESENZANI & C.