Offered here is a Spanish copy of a Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian revolver with extraordinary damascene embellishment. The period gold and silver damascene consists of floral scrollwork covering 60% of the metal surfaces and extending to the metal grips. As a technique, damascene involves inlaying gold, silver, or copper on the surface of iron, steel, bronze, or brass. The art form takes its name from Damascus, a Syrian city celebrated for its damascened wares as early as the 12th century. Collectors prize damascene for its intricate designs and beauty. The barrel rib has "F. DE ORBEA HERMANOS EN EIBAR" in gold. Their shop first opened in 1840, copied many Smith & Wesson models into the first part of the 20th century, and remains active today as manufacturers of bicycles. The barrel and cylinder are numbered to the gun. Provenance: Gillespie collection.