Lot 35: Japanese Matchlock Rifle 70

This is a superb example of a very ornate massive Japanese matchlock, probably made for royalty. The heavy barrel gauges at 70 caliber and features extensive silver inlaid decorations of fish, mountains and foliage. The fish have gold inlaid eyes and at the breech end are gold inlaid Japanese characters in a panel with a silver inlaid line border. The top of the barrel is fitted with sighting blocks which have gold inlay on two of the four corners. The muzzle end of the barrel is flared and octagon with gold inlaid band around the muzzle and simple line patterns. It is fitted with a large blade front sight. The mountings are brass and are also inlaid with silver in simple scroll designs. The hammer is decorated in the same manner. The stock is varnished hardwood.

Very fine. Almost all of the original dull brown finish remains. All of the inlays remain and are crisp. The brass components have a pleasant, untouched dark aged patina. The stock is also very fine with some minor cracking of the finish and overall scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. This is possibly the finest matchlock that RIAC has offered for auction!