Operating out of Edinburgh, Alexander Henry is best known for his work in the field of rifles, and included among his credits designing the rifling that would become the standard for the Martini-Henry Rifle adopted by the British in 1871. Named for the carriages used with riding elephants, the howdah pistol was originally intended as a point defense weapon to protect the rider and mount from hostile wildlife. Their potent stopping power made them desirable among big game hunters looking for a backup weapon, and some military officers who found the service revolvers of the day insufficient for their needs. Both pistols are equipped with ramp bead front and wire accented fixed notch rear sights, with "ALEXr HENRY, EDINBURGH AND LONDON." on the rib and a number on the rib, water table and top of the frame, "1" on this pistol and "2" on the B in this lot. Fine scroll engraving is present on the frame, locks, hammers, action lever and triggerguard, with floral designs on the screws. Checkered forearm and pistol grip, with engraved wedge escutcheons and a lanyard ring on the casehardened buttplate.

Very fine as period refurbished, with 95% of the brown finish on the Damascus barrels, showing minimal wear around the muzzle, a dent on the front sight, and a few light handling marks. The case colors are 95% bright and vivid, showing highly attractive color. The right hammer has darkened, with a cracked and mended spur. Stock is fine, with mild dents and a small chip on the wedge. Mechanically excellent.

As described in "A", with the number "2" on the barrel rib, on top of the frame, and on the water table, and the serial number "4772" on the rear triggerguard finial.

Very fine as period refurbished. 98% of the brown finish is present on the barrels, with some fading on the left side, mild handling marks and a well defined Damascus pattern. Case colors are bright and vivid, with over 95% of the original color remaining, showing some silvering on the high points. Wood is fine, with some dents and scuffs. Mechanically excellent. A superb set of Howdah Pistols that would make a fine addition to any collection of big game weaponry, or African safari items.