Offered here is a Spanish pinfire revolver with fantastic exhibition quality damascene embellishment. 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, such as this piece. The period gold and silver damascene on this revolver covers nearly all of the metal surfaces and consists of floral scrollwork and geometric line and circle motifs. The barrel features silver wire inlay on the round section, gold damascene at the muzzle and breech ends and a cannon style muzzle. The cylinder features the most dramatic embellishments. There are flush gold and silver inlaid military vignettes. Each vignette is different, exhibiting a cannon, a mortar and flags. A relief chiseled engraved floral motif on a gold background adorns the cylinder between the vignettes. The top of the barrel is signed "FA DE FRANCISCO LLUCH EN EIBAR" in gold. An ejector rod is mounted on the right side. A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt. In the mid-1850s Spain saw a resurgence in the popularity of damascene. Placido Zuloaga (1834-1910) is widely credited for ushering in a damascene renaissance in Spain, and although Francisco Lluch remains unidentified at the time of this writing, this revolver is without a doubt a testament to the craftsmanship of the period.

Excellent. The revolver retains 98% plus of the damascene. The grips are also very fine showing some minor evidence of handling. Mechanically excellent. A stunning example of Spanish damascene that will be a welcomed addition to any antique European firearm collection.