This very rare lever action pistol is one of an estimated 100 manufactured by the Italian maker Venditti of Lancusi. The pistol is similar to the American Volcanic pistol as it uses a lever action mechanism to feed cartridges from a tube magazine into the breech and fires a similar self-contained cartridge. Venditti manufactured these pistols in the mid-1850s with the limited production run halted because Venditti was imprisoned for murdering a man in a brawl. Released in the 1870s, Venditti attempted to once again produce his pistol but by then the design was obsolete. The top barrel flat is marked "VENDITTI E CI LANCUSI" is flanked by factory engraved scrollwork. The scrollwork extends to the top of the frame, frame sides at the front and side plates. The back strap is engraved with scrollwork and a geometric line pattern. The frame is brass with iron side plates. The pistol has fixed sights, an Italian proofed (crown over shield) frame, and a 10-shot tubular magazine. The two-piece grips are checkered and have engraved screw escutcheons. A swivel ring is mounted on the rounded butt.

Very good. The brass has a very attractive smooth honey patina. The remaining metal surfaces have an overall bright appearance with limited light spotting/pitting. The engraving is clear. The magazine spring is missing. The grips are very good with some minor handling marks and period re-cut checkering. Mechanically fine.