This intimidating and beautiful weapon was designed by Joseph-Celestin Dumouthier in Paris in the mid-19th century. His surname is regularly seen spelled both as Dumouthier and Dumonthier in period sources and modern works. He was active from 1840 to around 1900 and is listed in period sources as originally from Houdan in northern France. Bladed pistols had, by that time, already been manufactured for multiple centuries in Europe for use as hunting sidearms used to finish off wounded boars and other game. This example would likely have been a presentation piece or gift given its ornate nature. Some of these fascinating weapons are known to have been given to world leaders, including Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico (on display at the Art Institute of Chicago). It has scrollwork patterns etched along the 8 1/8 inch dagger blade, both barrels, the spines, and even the back of the trigger. All of these surfaces are also finished with gold plating. The blade is marked "DUMOUTHIER" above the left barrel and has "BREVET DVN" The grips/scales are spiral cut. The upper section of the quillions pull back revealing the nipples and serve as the hammers. When the right hammer is pulled back, the folding trigger extends. Pulling the trigger first engages the right hammer, and then, once the trigger is reset, it can be pulled a second time to engage the left hammer. No sheath is with the lot.

Very fine. 80% plus of the original gold plating remains. There is some minor flaking and fading, mostly on the barrels. The exposed metal has gray patina. The right grip panel is very fine and has only minor handling and storage marks. The left panel has repaired cracks in the upper section and a very slight hairline crack at the butt. The action functions fine, and the etching and markings are clear.