Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this Ottoman Miquelet Holster Pistol to the 18th Century.
The pistol is fitted with the robust miquelet ignition system, recognisable by its external mainspring and long steel frizzen, a lock form widely used throughout the Mediterranean and Ottoman world from the 17th century onwards for its strength and reliability.
The curved “rat-tail” or rail-butt stock is almost entirely clad in engraved and embossed sheet brass, decorated with stylised foliate and geometric designs and set with mother-of-pearl roundels. This decorative treatment is typical of Balkan Ottoman pistols produced in Bosnia during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
The original hand cut steel ramrod is present.
The barrel measures approximately 30.5 cm and retains engraved decorative panels at the muzzle and breech.
The pistol measures 45.5 cm overall and is fitted with a steel ramrod.
Such pistols were often carried by Ottoman provincial cavalry, Balkan warriors and tribal leaders, frequently worn in pairs as part of traditional costume.
Condition: Very good. Showing age and use with knocks and splits to the butt and brass mounts, and wear consistent with age. The pistol nevertheless remains a very attractive and decorative example with fine engraving to the brass. A traditional Ottoman Balkan firearm.
As with most Miquelet pistols the action works but slips, however it is complete & original.
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this Ottoman Miquelet Holster 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
Ottoman Miquelet “Rat-tail” Holster Pistol, Brass & Mother-of-pearl Mounted, Bosnian Sarajevo Region, C.1780–1810
