Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this French Flintlock Muff Pistol to the 18th Century.
It has a plain tang and a border-engraved flintlock decorated with refined foliate scrollwork to the tail, with the cock engraved en suite, characteristic of quality French workmanship of the period.
The moulded full stock is of figured wood, carved with foliate ornament behind the barrel tang and further enhanced with delicate silver wire scrollwork and waved border inlay to the butt. The steel mounts are all original, border engraved and decorated with rocaille and foliate motifs, including a distinctive spurred pommel with a sun-in-splendour motif to the cap. The steel ramrod is a later replacement, as commonly encountered.
Condition is good for age, with honest old wear, minor old stock damage, and light surface patination throughout. The unusually small size makes this a scarce and highly attractive example of a true French travelling or muff pistol from the Rococo period.
Action: Working but weak & on half-cock only.
Origin: France
Date: Circa 1740–1765
Barrel length: 8.0 cm
Overall length: 18 cm
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this French Flintlock Muff Pistol to the 18th Century.
We specialise in flintlock pistols, muskets, clocks & watches
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria Profile Page
Rare Small French Flintlock 40-Bore Travelling / Muff Pistol, Mid-18th Century, Silver Wire Inlay.
