Coming up in this week’s Fine Art Auction is a rare French Naval Pistol with lock and assembly circa 1800-1810 matching a 1786 naval pattern frame, [LOT 348].
Featuring a 22cm (8¾-inch) tapered steel smooth bore barrel, completely free of external barrel bands, the left side features a distinctive, undulating brass side plate crisply hand-stamped with the maritime tracking inventory prefix and model year ‘W-1786′”. The steel lock plate features a highly legible cursive French imperial arsenal inscription reading ‘Mre Imp de St Etienne’, showing a contemporary period-fitting or arsenal re-issue. Fitted with a ring-neck hammer, the prominent jaw screw hand-stamped with assembly batch number ’99’, and the barrel breech stamped with a matching assembly ‘1’ over an inspector’s poinçon.
The walnut full stock extends clean to the muzzle without a brass nose cap and retains its matching period wooden ramrod. The pistol comes complete with full regulatory naval brass furniture, including a plain trigger guard and a heavy spurred butt cap, and the touchhole is open and connects directly to the internal chamber. The bore exhibits deep, authentic black powder corrosion and heavy pitting throughout, with thin walls at the muzzle.
This lot is offered strictly as a historical curiosity and a licence is not required. Viewing is by appointment.
The Fine Art Timed Auction starts at 4.00 pm on Friday 13th November and runs until Sunday 22nd November from 7.00 pm.
