This highly attractive, svelte percussion double rifle from the legendary maker James Purdey was manufactured in 1844. The flat, solid rib is equipped with a dovetailed beaded blade front sight, a 50 yard standing notch rear sight with a platinum sight line, and a 100 yard folding leaf with a platinum sight line and is signed "J. PURDEY. 314 1/2 OXFORD STREET. LONDON." on the breech section. The breech plugs have platinum bands and plugs. The underside of the barrels also have London proof and view marks flanking "JP". The matching serial number "3849" is marked on underside of each barrel and breech hook in addition to the trigger guard tang. The flat locks have scroll engraving and "PURDEY" signed below the sliding safeties. The standing breech and furniture also feature scroll and floral engraving. The half-length stock has checkering on the forend and wrist, a round patchbox, steel "shotgun" buttplate, and a sling stud. The corresponding sling eye is on the second ramrod ferrule. Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman

Very good with distinct Damascus patterns mixed with an older re-browned finish and gray and brown patina along the barrels, light original case colors, strong original blue finish in some of the protected areas, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, distinct engraving and markings, and mild overall wear. The refinished stock is also very good and has crisp checkering, attractive figure, glued chips at the toe, and light scratches. Mechanically fine.