Manufactured by Tula Arsenal in 1912, this Nagant double action revolver has been extensively decorated in a koftgari/damascene style with extensive floral scroll patterns laid out and textured by an engraver into which silver foil was driven and then detail engraved, giving the silver a raised texture. The silver vinework is present on many components, including the niter blued hammer and trigger, along the curves of the ejector housing and loading gate, and even between the cylinder stops. No signature is present, and no provenance is available, so unfortunately the engraver and silversmith responsible for this decoration is unknown as is the original owner or intended recipient; from the quality we can infer that the former was a clear expert at their trade, and that the latter moved in the sorts of circles that could afford to indulge in such embellishment, suggesting a well-positioned officer or man of high social standing. Fitted with a set of checkered hardwood grips.

Exceptionally fine. Excluding the areas bearing the silver, the revolver shows 90% of the blue finish, with some bright wear on the high edges and on the underside of the trigger guard, along with some light handing marks and areas of shallow "overshoot" from the engraving. The silver is excellent, with a well aged patina overall and a few small areas of rubbing and loss. The grips are very fine, with a few light dings and chips. Mechanically excellent. Writer cannot recall ever seeing a Nagant revolver like this one!