William & Samuel Rooke were gunmakers in Birmingham in 1820-37 per Blackmore's "Gunmakers of London, 1350-1850." Like many Birmingham gunmakers, they marked their guns "LONDON." These pistols were very likely designed for dueling given their combination of features but also could have filled other roles for a gentleman. The smoothbore Damascus barrels on this pair are marked "LONDON" on top and have dovetailed silver blade front sights. The breeches have fixed notch rear sights and martial and floral engraving. The advanced locks are signed "W & S ROOKE" and have sliding safeties, frizzen spring rollers, scroll engraving, and semi-waterproof pans. They are also equipped with adjustable single set triggers, mostly blued furniture with floral and martial themed engraving, and blank silver thumb escutcheons. The barrels are secured to the stocks with two wedges, and the stocks have checkered wrists with molded borders, nicely formed flats, and smooth oiled finish. The case is unmarked and contains a three-way combination flask, loading and cleaning rods with attachments, a key, and small flints.

Very fine overall with distinct Damascus patterns on the barrel, mild pitting concentrated around the vent, strong original case colors on the lock and breech, 60% plus bright original blue finish remaining on the furniture, aged patina on the silver, and mild overall wear. The stock is very fine and has crisp checkering, light scratches and pressure marks, and smooth finish. The set trigger needs adjustments, and the lock is mechanically excellent.

See A.

Fine with distinct Damascus patterns along the barrel, oxidation and pitting concentrated at the vent, strong original case colors on the lock and breech, aged patina on the silver, 30% original blue finish on the furniture, and mild overall wear. The stock has a period epaired break visible in the forend, well-done splice at the tail of the lock, general light scratches and dings, crisp checkering, and smooth finish. The set trigger could use adjustments, and the lock is mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are very good with mild storage wear, including some torn lining. This is a very attractive set by a comparably rarely seen maker.