A .577 FLINTLOCK REGULATION SHORTENED 1801/16 PATTERN SEA-SERVICE BELT PISTOL SIGNED TOWER, no visible serial number, circa 1805, the barrel shortened by regulation to 9in., Tower proofs, solid top-tang, borderline engraved lock, the Tower signature to the tail and GR crown device in front of the ring-necked cock, walnut full-stock, carved apron around the top-tang, working armourer's repairs to grip, heavy brass furniture except iron belt hook and under-barrel ramrod, Board of Ordnance and inspectors stamps to wood.

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.