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Fine unsigned French percussion boxlock pocket pistol, serial no. 17, fitted with a 2 ⅝ in. turn-off barrel. The compact pistol is distinguished by a finely engraved frame, sculptural percussion hammer, folding trigger and an unusually elaborate relief-carved ebony grip.
The frame is decorated with finely executed foliate and floral engraving, while the ebony grip incorporates stippled panels of raised scrolling ornament and bold fan at the wrist. A small, covered compartment, or cap box, is incorporated into the butt for carrying percussion caps.
Turn-off barrel pocket pistols evolved from earlier flintlock forms and remained popular during the percussion era as compact personal defensive arms. Their screw-off barrels permitted the projectile to be loaded directly into the breech, with the barrel then replaced before firing. French gunmakers produced particularly refined examples, frequently combining compact mechanical design with elaborate engraving and finely carved grips.
Although unsigned, the quality of the engraving, sculpted hammer, carved ebony grip and integrated cap box distinguish this as a particularly well-finished example of the French percussion pocket pistol.
Item Date: Circa 1830–1845
Measurement: 2 ⅝ incj turn-off barrel
Material: Engraved steel frame and barrel; relief-carved ebony grip; metal butt cap
Item Condition: : Fine condition overall with pleasing age-toned surfaces and crisp engraved decoration. The sculpted hammer and engraved frame retain particularly good definition. The ebony grip remains excellent, with sharply defined relief carving.
Price: $1,550
SKU 308-745
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.