Lot 2314: Philippe Grifnee Master Engraved Holland & Holland Shotguns

This extraordinary Holland & Holland Royal Deluxe pair of shotguns was embellished by Master Engraver Philippe Grifnee, who has signed his masterpiece near the double triggers. A true master of his trade, Grifnee was known for his relief engraving and was employed by Holland & Holland. He set the standard for modern day firearm art; internationally recognized as one of the world's finest engravers. These shotguns definitely attest to Grifnee's unmatched skills. Sadly, Grifnee passed away at the age of 59 in May 2012, leaving behind true works of firearm art that continues to influence the trade. Full coverage relief engraved floral scrollwork is featured on the frame, side plates, break lever, tangs, trigger guard and forearm hardware. Images of Diana, Goddess of the Hunt, adorn the side plates and underside of the frame. Note that the side plates exhibit obverse and reverse imagery of Diana aiming her bow and arrow. The side plates are signed "HOLLAND & HOLLAND." The right and left barrels are marked "HOLLAND & HOLLAND" and "33. BRUTON STREET, LONDON," respectively, and the barrel rib is script marked "Model de Luxe." The shotguns are numbered "1" and "2," respectively, and the gold inlaid numbers are found on the break lever, solid rib and forearm hardware. The serial number is inlaid in gold on the lower tang. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, lower tang, forearm and barrels. Two British "crown/GP" proofs are stamped on the frame. The action has an automatic safety with "SAFE" on a gold background. Mounted on a highly figured and finely checkered forearm and straight grip stock featuring an initial oval marked "JLJ" and a checkered bare butt with scroll engraved toe and heel plates. The barrel and stock measurements are: bore diameter at the muzzle 717 inches/.704 inches; choked modified/improved modified; minimal wall thickness .034 inches/.034 inches; bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .727 inches/.727 inches; length of chamber 3 inches/3 inches; length of pull 14 5/8 inches; drop at comb 1 1/2 inches; drop at heel 2 1/4 inches; slight cast off; toe in/toe out neutral; and overall weight 7 lbs .4 oz. Right barrel: proved at 18.5mm, measuring 18.5mm, minimum wall thickness 32. Left barrel: proved at 18.5mm, measuring 18.5mm, minimum wall thickness 33. Comes with a leather bound takedown case and canvas and leather case cover. The case has a Holland & Holland label on the interior of the lid and contains 2 pair of snap caps, three-piece cleaning rod, brush, extra firing pins and springs, case key, oiler, bore brush, and three screwdrivers. The canvas cover has the initials "JLJ."

Near new showing limited light handling marks overall. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine showing some minor handling/storage marks and hardware taking on a dark patina. The case cover is very fine showing some minor handling/storage marks. A fabulous pair of Philippe Grifnee signed engraved Holland & Holland shotguns that will add value to any sporting arm collection.

Consecutively numbered to and described in "A" but with the following barrel and stock measurements: bore diameter at the muzzle .714 inches/.703 inches; chokes modified/improved modified, minimal wall thickness .034 inches/.034 inches; bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .727 inches/.727 inches; length of chamber 3 inches; length of pull 14 5/8 inches; drop at comb 1 7/16 inches: drop at heel 2 1/8 inches; slight cast off; toe in/toe out neutral; and overall weight 6 lbs 15.8 oz. Right barrel: proved at 18.5mm, measuring 18.5mm, minimum wall thickness 35. Left barrel: proved at 18.5mm, measuring 18.5mm, minimum wall thickness 32.

Excellent overall with 99% plus original blue finish remaining, a few light handling marks overall and a small missing sliver of wood from the forearm (left side). Mechanically excellent.