Late 18th Century English Canon Barrel Flintlock "Queen Anne" Pocket Pistol Signed W Ketland & Co
With profuse silver wire inlay to its one piece bulbous walnut grip that also features a very attractive Birmingham Hallmarked silver grotesque buttmask. This is also stamped with the initials CF for the well regarded and prolific Silversmith of the time Charles Freeth.
The steelwork is clean, but quite worn, meaning that although the piece is rather tactile, the engraving (including the signature) is quite faint.
The mainspring is strong and the action is lovely and crisp in both half and full position.
The trigger guard sliding safety catch engages as it should at half position.
The frizen and its spring are quite weak.
The barrel is currently seized and not wanting to cause any damage I have not tried to force it.
The date mark for the Hallmark puts this piece at 1799 and although it is a Birmingham Hallmark the piece was proofed in London.
The Ketland Gunmaking business was founded in 1760 by Thomas Ketland and it was a family business that was to span the generations to become a well known and respected firm, not only in Birmingham, but across the Country and abroad.
Often seen converted to percussion cap, it is nice to see it in its original state.
Most of its silver wire inlay is still in place and despite its wear, it is still a handsome piece.
Barrel length 6cm, Overall length 20.5cm
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
