This stunning cased pair of pistols were manufactured at the famous Versailles Manufactory run by Nicolas-Noel Boutet in circa 1810 and were subsequently expertly converted to percussion between 1830 and 1840. The Norman Blank Estate's notes indicate the pistols were purchased from well-known California dealer Martin Retting on May 21, 1958, and are illustrated and listed in "Golden State Arms World's Guns and Other Weapons" 1958 catalogue on page 94. The top plates on the boxlock actions are each inscribed "MANUFACT/VERSAILLES," and the underside of each pistol at the breech is inscribed "BOUTET/DIRECTEUR/ARTISTE." The pistols feature very finely detailed engraving that coordinates on the pistols but varies in the details. Among the designs are vases, floral garlands, decorative borders, and minuscule detailed animal scenes. The grips feature stunning relief carved floral patterns and bead borders. The barrels have deep crowns and studs on the underside for removal using the barrel key incorporated in one handle of the ball mold within the case. The ebony veneer case which houses the pistols vertically has dark green velvet lining with bullion thread lace trim.

Very fine with mostly crisp engraving and markings, bright metal throughout, some light spotted patination, and generally only minimal light handling and storage marks. The grip is also very fine and has crisp carving, a few minor dings, and very faint edge wear. Mechanically excellent. The upper portion of the latch is detached and currently locked to the lower portion, the key plate escutcheon is missing, and a few pieces of veneer are absent; otherwise, the case is also very fine and has mild age and storage related wear. The combination ball mold and barrel key is very fine and remains mostly bright with minimal light patination.

See "A." Provenance: Martin Retting; The Norman R. Blank Collection

Very fine with crisp engraving and markings, mostly bright metal surfaces with some light patination, and generally minor overall wear. The grip is also very fine and has crisp carving and minor edge and handling wear. Mechanically excellent.