This pair of attractive flintlock pistols are marked "TATHAM" on the lock plates below the pan and "LONDON" on the top of the three stepped barrels. At least two generations of Tathams operated in London and manufactured swords and firearms for the king, government contracts, and export. Sources list varying dates for the Tathams, but Henry Sr. appears to have operated initially in partnership with Joseph Egg until at least 1808 and may have also started working independently under solely his name as early as 1800. Even after their father's death in 1835, his elder sons Henry and Charles continued the business under their father's name until 1865. Given the style of these pistols, it is likely that they date prior to Henry Sr.'s death. The pistols may have been made as "Indian Chief" pistols for gifts given at councils to earn the good will of Indian leaders. Research confirms that the firm is known to have made flintlocks for Royal presentation to Indians in Canada even as late as 1865. The pistols have engraved designs on the length of the barrels, lock plates, cocks, and frizzens. Arrows and quivers are engraved on the brass butt caps which have feather style tangs further suggesting they were likely designed for Indian clients. They also have inlaid silver wire in scroll patterns on the back of the grip, between the upper tang and the ornate brass initial plate, and between the ramrod pipe and trigger guard finials. The side plates have a complex martial design. Each includes a ramrod with horn tip.

Very good. The barrel and lock have a gray patina while the brass components have an aged patina with some spotting and light pitting. The light engraving on the barrel is partially worn but still visible while the engraving on the other components remains clear. The "LONDON" on the barrel and marker on the lockplate are very sharp. The silver wire is intact with an aged silver patina. The wood is also very good with various scratches and pressure dents overall. Mechanically excellent.

As noted on gun A with the addition of a cleaning tip on the ramrod.

Very good. The pistol is in very similar condition to gun A with more of the barrel engraving clear and larger areas of light pitting. The wood is also very good with a chip above the rear of the sideplate and a hairline crack below. There are some additional hairline cracks on the left side below and at the tip of the buttcap tang. Mechanically excellent.