Lot 1355: Signed Elephant Scene Engraved Express Holland & Holland Rifle

Blued chopper lump barrels respectively signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND” and “BRUTON STREET – LONDON” in platinum and the smooth concave rib with “.700 NITRO EXPRESS” also inlaid in platinum. The breech end and muzzle of each barrel is finely chiselled in deep relief with foliate scrollwork as are the quarter rib and front sight ramp. Rear sights comprise one standing and one folding leaf graduated for “50” and “100” yards and each with gold inlaid center line, the front sights comprising a bead with flip over moon sight. The flats of the barrels struck with London nitro proof marks with date mark “MM” for 2000. Massive treble grip action signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND” on the bolsters, with removable firing pin discs, extended upper tang with manual safety with engraved “SAFE” and “FIRE”, and side locks each with cocking indicator. Trigger plate signed “Ph. GRIFNEE”, checkered and articulated front trigger, and rolled edge trigger guard. The action and side locks each chiselled in deep relief with scenes of elephants, both herds and solitary animals, all surrounded by fine foliate scrollwork. The elephant theme continues to the trigger guard with a herd of elephants moving nose to tail, the pistol grip cap with hinged trap cover featuring an elephant footprint flanked by a pair of tusks. Finely figured 15 inch walnut pistol grip stock with raised cheekpiece, checkered grip and forearm, and leather wrapped recoil pad. The underside of the butt with vacant gold initial oval. The forearm with push button release and exposed parts of the ironwork chiselled with further foliate scrollwork en suite with remainder of the rifle. A pair of blued sling mounts with floral engraved screwheads complete the rifle. Weight 17 lbs. 13.7 oz.

Excellent overall, retaining 99% plus original blue finish with some scattered minor handling evidence (mostly on the wood) and crisp stock checkering. Mechanically excellent. A phenomenal work of art by the late renowned Master Engraver Phillippe Grifnee. Provenance: Robert E. Petersen Collection