398 - AN EXCEPTIONAL AMERICAN RIMFIRE TARGET PISTOL, 19TH CENTURY

AN EXCEPTIONAL AMERICAN RIMFIRE TARGET PISTOL, 19TH CENTURY A magnificent single-shot, rimfire, American presentation target pistol. The pistol is chambered in .22 caliber and has a rifled bore. The breech is decorated with a fire-gilt Imperial eagle as well as floral motifs throughout the entire length of the barrel on both sides. The hammer is secured with a cast-bronze gilded lion. The hammer, trigger guard, and steel grip terminal are engraved. The stock is of carved ebony. There are two symmetrical gilt-bronze decorative plates on either side of the stock. The French Imperial eagle on the breech part of the barrel is a symbol of Napoleon III and means the pistol (probably one of two cased pieces) was likely a gift from the Emperor, or perhaps received by him. America, ca. 1860. Dimensions: L: 15 in., (38 cm.) Condition: A few minor chips and scratches to the stock. The original gilding is almost entirely preserved. Good action. Роскошный пистолет с восьмигранным стволом калибра 22 мм, по всей длине украшенным золотой инкрустацией с растительными орнаментами и изображением национального орла, нанесенным поверх чернения. Курок замка выполнен в виде фигуры льва. Под казенной частью с двух сторон округлые латунные накладки с витыми узорами в высоком рельефе. Рукоять из темного дерева обильно декорирована искусной резьбой. Состояние: Несколько небольших сколов на дереве. Механизм полностью функционален. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All statements contained in the catalog, condition reports, invoices, advertisements, or elsewhere concerning the authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, period, culture, source, provenance, authenticity, genuineness, condition, rarity, importance, or value of any lot are statements of opinion only and shall not be construed as representations, warranties, or statements of fact. All lots are sold "as-is", refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions does not offer in-house shipping. We will provide a list of recommended shippers upon request.