This wonderful example of the traditional Germanic jaeger rifle has the following brass inlays on the barrel: a floral wreath centered around a bloom ahead of the folding leaf rear sight, a band signed "MICHAEL HAS" behind the rear sight, and a smaller band marked "1663". The barrel has a brass blade front sight and a stamp of the Schwäbisch Gmünd coat of arms (rampant unicorn) ahead of an engraved band and "I" at the breech. The elder Michael Haas (b.1635-d.1701) was but one member of the larger Haas family gunmakers and was based in Schwäbisch Gmünd in Baden-Württemberg. The lock is unmarked, and the rifle has double set triggers and brass furniture. It is mounted on a full length walnut stock with flared horn forend cap, sling swivels, traditional wooden patch box, and beautiful carved designs including a elaborate battle scene on the left side of the butt. See the images for the details. The top of the wrist include the Beulwitz family coat of arms which is composed of a rooster perched on a helm over a shield with three stars and a waxing crescent moon. An oil painted depiction of the coat of arms is also on the left side of the butt at center surrounded by martial motifs and has an added protective plate. The rifle includes a wooden ramrod with bone tip. The Beulwitz noble family of Thüringen in the "green heart" of present day Germany traces its roots back as early as the 12th century. A village named after the family first appears in the historical record in 1240, and members of the family in the 16th century were among multiple orders of knights. Hans Karl von Beulwitz also known as Johann Carl von Beulwitz (b.1636-d.1711) appears in records as a kreisdeputierter (county deputy) and rittmeister (captain of Calvary). He was stationed at Erlbach, Saxony, and Gottsmannsgrün, Bavaria.

Fine. The lock and barrel primarily have an aged gray patina with some light oil staining and patches of darker patina. The brass has an attractive aged patina. The exceptionally well executed raised relief carved wood is very fine with small pressure marks and chips, overall light scratches, and crisp carved designs. There are a few slight cracks at the edges. The lock is excellent and aside from the stamp on the barrel at the breech, the markings and designs are crisp. This is a beautiful example of a blend German firearms technology and art and is tied to a noble family.