This is a superb example of a massive Japanese matchlock made for royalty. The heavy barrel gauges at 70 caliber and features a gold and silver dragon with finely detailed scales and features 7" back of the muzzle and a silver inlaid mon of circled crossed hawk feathers at the breech end. The symbol is called "Maru niCugai Takanoha" according to consignor notes which also state that this Matchlock belonged to a Prince of secondary rank called "Aki". The muzzle is flared with a massive blade front sight. The rear sight is a large decorative three step block with a sighting groove on top. The barrel appears to have been bright, the hammer arm and pantray are iron and the remaining parts are brass. Mounted with a massive hardwood varnished stock with Japanese characters that consignor translates as "7th year Ansci (tiger) year spring" and after 110 years passed and then owner made the inscription "7th year Kayu Ashiu (Awa Country). Complete with an original ram rod. The matchlock was introduced into Japan by the Portuguese in the middle of the 16th Century and is known throughout the world as the Tanegashima, named after the island of it's original port of entry. Made and used for about 300 years, it is one of the worlds longest utilized guns.

Very fine. The barrel shows scattered bright areas mixed with brown and gray patina. There is some scattered minor spotting and pitting. All of the gold and silver inlay remain with the mon beginning to dull with age. The stock is very fine with 98% original varnish remaining, which is beginning to craze in areas and showing some minor dings and scratches. The markings on the bottom of the stock remain crisp and clear. The action is fine.