This pistol from Nicolas-Noel Boutet (1761-1833) comes from his shop in Paris c. 1818-1822 after the downfall of Napoleon. The Victoria & Albert Museum states, "When Boutet left Versailles in 1818 he set up at No. 87 Rue de Richelieu in Paris but continued to use the signature, 'Boutet à Versailles.'" They also indicate that the serial number on the barrel is consistent with Boutet's private work after 1818. The heavily swamped Damascus barrel has fine "microgroove" rifling, a dovetailed nickel-silver blade front sight, gold bands inlaid at the muzzle and on the breech plug, "95" in gold inlay on top towards the front sight, grooved breech, "Boutet" on the upper left flat and "A Versailles" on the upper right flat inlaid in gold with floral and scroll accents, gold fleur-de-lis marks on the upper left and upper right flats of the breech plug, platinum vent liner, Leclerc's "LC" maker's mark on the underside of the breech plug, ".No.95." marked just behind the tenon, and "1" on the breech hook and just ahead of the forend indicating this was the first pistol in a since separated pair. "1" is also found on the stock and standing breech. The latter is grooved and has a notch rear sight. The flat beveled edge lock is signed "BOUTET" in gold with foliate accents and border along with a guttered and platinum lined priming pan, frizzen spring roller, sculpted frizzen and cock, and sliding half-cock safety. The pistol is equipped with an adjustable single triggers, and the trigger plate has a vase motif finial with incredible detail in the relief chiseled floral patterns. The spurred trigger guard and other mounts also feature delicate floral engraving and "scooped" designs. The nicely figured walnut half-stock is slender and beautifully shaped and has silver escutcheons, fine checkering on the wrist with scalloped molding at the edges, and a flared relief chiseled pommel.

Very good with bright gold and platinum, traces of original blue and casehardened finish, gray and brown patina on the balance, repaired cock, light pitting, and general mild overall wear. The stock is fine and has distinct checkering, small crack on the left at the breech, and mild dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.