These classic Scottish belt pistols were crafted by Thomas Murdoch (1741 - 1791). Murdoch trained in Doune and worked both there and nearby in Leith, Scotland. Similar pistols by Murdoch have been dated to 1770-1790 and can be found in renown international museum collections, including the National Museums of Scotland. These pistols are signed "T/MURDOCH" on the locks and have extensive engraving covering nearly every surface with the exception of the front section of the belt clips and the fluted breech sections of the barrels. The vents have gold liners, and there are silver inlays and accents including the ball trigger, belt clip, blank inscription panels, and the threaded vent pick in the classic ram's horn style butts. The barrels are four stage and have smooth bores and flared muzzles. Includes a letter indicating "these pistols came from the Duke of Northumberland at Alnwick castle."

Very fine with mostly bright surfaces with light patina and some faint pitting, attractive aged patina on the silver, bright gold vent liner, and crisp engraving and markings. Mechanically excellent.

See A.

Very fine with mostly bright surfaces, some light patina forming and spots of faint pitting, attractive aged patina on the silver, bright gold vent liner, and crisp markings and engraving patterns throughout. Mechanically excellent. This is an exceptional pair of Scottish belt pistols by one of the most famous makers of these arms. High quality Highland pistols are very hard to come by and are even harder to find as a high condition pair. Provenance: Robert M. Lee Collection.