Early 18th Century 0.66" Calibre Long Barrelled Flintlock Holster Pistol Signed I I Behr.
A stunning quality flintlock pistol, finely engraved and with a chiselled steel barrel signed on the lockplate I I Behr (Johann Jacob Behr) who I believe worked in Liege and Mastricht, but originally came from Wurzburg in Bavaria, and operated between 1690 and 1740.
It is in lovely condition with the steelwork showing no signs of corrosion and the brasswork being clean but aged and unpolished.
The carved full stock is likewise in good condition with no splits or cracks and just the age related bruising that you would expect and its smooth finish and dark colouration which makes it a very tactile piece.
There are 3 small areas around the buttcap that have at some time in the past been very well repaired with a different type of wood, but so nicely done as to not detract from its beauty as a whole.
The brasswork is finely decorated featuring grotesque faces, classical busts and cherubs, with the sideplate being heavily pierced.
It has a very interesting Crowned brass escutcheon with a full Coat of Arms engraved at its centre.
The crest is of quartered fleur-de-lis and Lion Rampart, and attempting to carry out some research on this sent me a merry chase requiring more time than I could give it, leaving me nothing definite to provide you with here, sorry!
With regards to the mechanics of this piece, the mainspring is smooth and the action is good in both half and full position, but crisper in half position.
The frizen is smooth and springs forward as it should.
A very beautiful early piece.
Barrel length 35.5cm, Overall length 53cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable ornamental item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
