This is a long-barrelled musket (barrel 134.5 cm) features an octagonal steel barrel secured by four finely embossed silver barrel bands, each chased with floral and scrollwork designs, (small losses), inlaid with openwork panels on each side of the
The external toe-lock mechanism — typical of the region — is complete and ornately engraved with scrolling motifs, but is currently?not in working order. The lock plate is brass-faced with a short Arabic inscription along the lower edge.
A richly decorated North African toe-lock musket, almost certainly Algerian and dating to the late 18th or early 19th century. This long gun reflects the fusion of Ottoman firearm design and Berber-Moorish decorative arts, intended for high-status display or ceremonial use as much as for function.
The full walnut stock is embellished with extensive silver inlay, including engraved flowerheads and pierced scroll panels. Notably, each side of the fore-end bears openwork silver cartouches, one inset w
...ith red coral cabochons — a distinctive regional feature. The trigger plate is also of engraved silver, and the faceted butt is finished with an ivory butt-cap. With ramrod.
Condition: Mechanism complete but not operational. Stock with minor age-related losses and small repaired areas. Decorative elements well preserved. Please look at the photos for condition.
Overall length: approx. 173 cm
Barrel length: 134.5 cm
Calibre: 22 bore
Region: Algeria / North Africa
Period: Late 18th to Early 19th century
This is a highly decorative and authentic piece of North African military history, blending Islamic artistry with Ottoman-era firearm design.
The coral and engraved silverwork are points for collectors of Islamic and ethnographic arms.
This item has been registered under the UK Ivory Act 2018, registration number 9TLSU2QL.
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria, Portobello Road
WE are open every Saturday between 9.30 - 3.30pm in Chelsea Galleries 67 Portobello Road London.
We are at the front of the gallery, on the 1st aisle.
Web page:-
https://peterharrisclocks.com/welcome/
Internal Reference: 21725/03
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1155674
Dateline of this antique is 18th Century
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