"GEORG LIPPERT IN EGER" inscribed on the top flat of the barrel. Georg Lippert is listed as an active maker located in Eger, Bohemia, circa 1720-1750. Air guns of this style were used primarily for indoor target shooting. This air pistol has a sliding flat top round barrel chambered in approximately .25 caliber/6.5 mm with a smooth bore. It functions through the use of the included hand crank that is inserted in the right side for cocking, using the trigger guard that doubles as a large spring. Upon pulling the set trigger, the spring trigger guard, attached to the internal piston, releases and pushes the internal piston forward in the cylinder reservoir which pushes a rush of air into the breech. Fitted with a hardwood stock with floral relief carvings. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/467" hanging from the trigger guard. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Very fine, retains 70% original blue finish with scattered moderate brown freckling on the balance and sharp barrel markings. The brass exhibits an attractive golden aged patina. The stock is also very fine with scattered light scratches, a few small chips in the forend, and defined recut carvings and edges. The set trigger functions fine, but the gun will not properly cock and mechanically needs work.