April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/12/2023
Pierre Klenke (also spelled Kenke) is recorded in Selle, Hanover, circa 1680. 12 - 1/2" barrel in three stages, octagonal about the breech before transitioning to tapering round stages, intercepting by wedding rings, slightly flattened in third stage for sighting with a blade front sight, and decorated with Gothic windows at fore edge of octagonal section. Initials "P·K" are on top flat of octagonal section, probably for Klenke again, this time as a barrel maker. Slightly convex banana lock is signed "PIERRE KLENKE A SELLE" and accented with lined borders and sparse but well executed relief carving on pan cover, pan, and swan neck cock. Full length stock retains barrel via pins and is relief carved with tendrils and animals. Tailed trigger is protected by a steel trigger guard with long tang and an elaborate floral finial. Wrist with a pierced scroll-wreathed device. Carving at tang en suite with ramrod entry ferrule; ramrod is a slightly flared iron tipped rod retained by a single nicely turned ferrule before feeding into an en suite turned reinforced mouth. Buttcap with long stirrups with a mustachioed warrior on pommel. Interesting "No. 13." on back of butt, possibly a rack number. CONDITION: Metal is largely bright throughout with some scattered areas of darkness and inactive oxidation, more on lock than on barrel. Stock is good with good definition to carving but repaired several times, including nosecap restoration, chips and crack around lock, and splice repairs. Mechanically fine, bore is excellent, original flint. A well decorated pistol.
Caliber/Bore
.56 Smoothbore
Manufacturer
Pierre Klenke