The inscription on the top flat reads exactly LVCA. DI. MAIO FECIT ANNO 1777, with the characteristic 18th-century use of “V” for “U” and decorative periods/dots separating the elements. This translates directly from Latin as “Luca di Maio made [this] in the year 1777”. The engraving style is clean, slightly worn from age, but still sharp – is typical of high-quality Italian work from the period.
This is a classic wheel-type eprouvette (powder tester) in pistol form, designed to measure gunpowder strength by how far the ratchet wheel is thrown back by the controlled explosion. The wheel is graduated 2 to 18, which matches known examples. The external miquelet lock, with its combined steel/frizzen and exposed mainspring, is distinctly southern European, most likely from the Kingdom of Naples region, where this lock type was very popular in the late 18th century.
The construction is elegant: one-piece walnut stock with attractive figuring features beautiful carving, and ornate engraved brass furniture (buttcap, trigger guard, and side plate [featuring engraved borders and rococo-inspired shapes].
Luca di Maio remains an obscure maker—no major references document him extensively, which is common for regional Italian gunmakers who produced limited, high-quality items rather than in large workshops.
Item Date: 1777
Measurement: Overall length: 12"
Material: Walnut stock, brass and steel
Item Condition: Very good condition consistent with age and use; displays beautifully. The steel parts show gray color/patina and display trivial light pitting and age-appropriate wear. There's some minor chipping at the "muzzle"
Price: $3,250
SKU 308-725
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.
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