Snaphaunce or snaphance pistols like these remained in production in Italy well-into the 18th century after flintlocks rose to be the dominant lock type elsewhere in Europe. The pistol is not signed but has very ornate engraving and sculpting incorporating flowing floral designs, bestial, and mask elements as well as incised carving featuring scrollwork, figures, crosshatch, and striped patterns, and the back of the wrist is carved with a circular panel featuring a brick tower and a star. The butt has two high relief silver plaques of masks. The lock and barrel engraving are similar to a pair that Rock Island Auction Company sold in August 2023 that were featured in "One Hundred Great Guns" by Lindsay on page 61. Provenance: Property of a Gentleman