Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this Ottoman Flintlock Holster Pistol to the 19th Century.
Measuring approximately 14 inches overall, with a 9-inch round twist barrel of approximately .630" calibre, stepped to a slightly larger diameter approximately 2¾ inches from the breech.
No proof marks or other barrel marks are evident.
“The highly distinctive cock is ornamented in relief with a martial motif, apparently comprising a classical helmet or headpiece with crossed spears/lances.”
"The stock is decorated with an elongated metal escutcheon/inlaid panel bearing a series of small stamped characters or numerals, possibly Ottoman/ Arabic workshop or ownership marks."
The Ottoman-style flintlock cocks at half and full cock and fires with good spring pressure, with a strong frizzen spring. The lock has acquired an attractive smooth, speckled patina and bears a worn engraved inscription apparently reading “WITIM”, although its precise significance has not been established.
The complete dark brown walnut stock has an attractive well-handled patina, with marks and bruising commensurate with age and use. It is extensively decorated with silver-coloured wire inlaid in scrolling and foliate patterns.
The furniture comprises elaborate apparently silver- mounts, including the drum-and-flag patterned lock securing plate, trigger guard with decorative front strap and long rear strap, incorporating star-and-crescent decoration. The pistol is fitted with a substantial engraved brass butt cap, also decorated with star-and-crescent motifs, showing minor impact damage. An imitation ramrod is retained in a fixed position beneath the barrel, with silver-coloured imitation ramrod pipes.
A particularly attractive and characterful example of the Ottoman/Balkan kubur tradition, displaying extensive surviving decorative work and an appealing untouched antique appearance.
Condition: Good overall antique condition. Attractive age-related patination and wear, some bruising to the stock, losses/wear to portions of the decoration and minor damage to the butt cap. Lock appears mechanically complete & in working order, although the pistol should be regarded as a collector's antique and not assumed safe to fire.
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this Ottoman Flintlock Holster Pistol to the 19th Century.
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Ottoman Balkan Flintlock Holster Pistol (Kubur), Silver-wire Inlaid Stock with Apparently Silver Furniture and a Cock with a Martial Motif. Early 19th Century
