Edward Bate (1743-1810) was one of the most talented late 18th century air gun makers and was active in London. He was also among the few who produced high quality air pistols. This attractive example features high quality floral, border and martial scene engraving on the frame, lock, sideplate and trigger guard, a smoothbore octagon barrel that measures at approximately .54 caliber, dovetail mounted bead front sight and notch rear sight, "BATE LONDON" gold inlaid in a ribbon on top of the breech, "BATE" marked at the center of the flat beveled lock, and mounted with walnut front stock and a leather wrapped metal stock air reservoir. Air guns of this style were used primarily for hunting. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. Absent ramrod. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Good, with scattered mild spotting and slightly darkened patina on the iron surfaces, retains nearly all of the gold inlay, attractive golden aged patina on the brass, and sharp markings and engraving overall. The refinished walnut stock is also good with some tacked repaired cracked sections visible, a few small absent sections, a mild crack on the right edge, and some scattered handling marks. The leather is also good with mild age related wear and cracking. Mechanically fine.