Manufactured c. 1867 by Harris John Holland prior to his nephew joining him and the company renaming to the world famous Holland & Holland. This early hammer gun incorporates J. Portlock’s patent no. 800 (provisional protection only) of March 19, 1867, for a cartridge extractor system. With browned Damascus barrels with sunken concave rib signed “H. HOLLAND. 98. NEW BOND ST. LONDON” and single extractor. Casehardened rounded action with serpentine fences, underlever with looped finial, non-rebounding back action locks each signed “H. HOLLAND” and blued trigger guard. The water table marked “J. PORTLOCKS PATENT”. With fine classic English border and scroll engraving throughout. The locks also engraved with small panel game scenes of pheasant. Well-figured 14 1/4" walnut stock with checkered grip and forearm and dark horn buttplate. London black powder and Birmingham nitro reproof marks. In relined and refitted leather case, the lid with large H. Holland printed trade label, the exterior of the lid named to “B. DAVIDSON/No.6 ALBERT TERRACE/KNIGHTSBRIDGE”. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection