There were multiple members of the Erttel family active as gunmakers in Dresden in the 17th and 18th centuries (see "Der Neue Stockel pages 345 and 346). This rifle may be the work of Andreas Erttel c. 1679-1725. The seven-groove rifled barrel has floral engraving on the muzzle, a band of floral engraving ahead of the dovetailed brass blade front sight, a dovetailed notch rear sight, "ERTTEL [gold maker's mark] A DRESDE" signed on top of the breech section, another band of floral engraving at the breech, and "No 23" on the tang. The flat lock is signed "ERTTEL/A DRESDE" at the top and features highly detailed engraving including a battle scene with castles and marking soldiers in the background, martial trophies on the wheel cover and dog spring bridle, and a seated figure with martial trophies on the dog. The iron trigger guard and double set trigger plat have floral finials, and the stock has a coordinating carved finial ahead of the trigger guard as well as a horn forend cap, ramrod pipes, lock screw plates, cheekpiece edge, thumb rest, patch box end panels, and buttplate; raised relief floral scroll carving ahead of the cheekpiece, nice molding, and a large contrasting hunter's star on the cheekpiece. A small golden label/tag on a red ribbon and an old document accompany the rifle.

Fine metal with light gray patina, faint pitting, crisp markings and engraving, and general mild overall wear. The refinished stock is very good and has minor edge wear, minor repairs, and a smooth older finish. Lock not tested.