401 - A PAIR OF MATCHING FLINTLOCK PISTOLS, FRENCH, MID-18TH CENTURY

A PAIR OF MATCHING FLINTLOCK PISTOLS, FRENCH, MID-18TH CENTURY With round smoothbore barrels retained by barrel pins to full carved walnut stocks, each fitted with finely engraved flintlock mechanisms signed by the gunsmith beneath the pan. The pistols feature iron furniture throughout, including pierced and molded sideplates, trigger guards with acorn finials, butt caps engraved with a stylized rosette, ramrod pipes, and wrist escutcheons. The stocks are carved with scrolling rococo ornament around the tangs and mounts, while the lock panels are subtly molded. Both retain their original ramrods with button heads. The locks are of the French flintlock form with swan-neck cocks and faceted steel batteries. The lockplates are engraved by the gunsmith. Dimensions: L: 17 1/4 in., (43.8 cm.) Condition: Both pistols remain in good condition. Good action. Light scratches to the wooden stocks. 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.