Blued chopper lump barrels respectively signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND” and “BRUTON STREET – LONDON” in platinum and the smooth concave rib with “600 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 platinum 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 for 1998. Substantial treble grip action signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND” on the bolsters, with removable firing pin discs, extended upper tang with manual safety with engraved “SAFE”, 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 rhinoceros, both crashes and solitary animals, all surrounded by fine foliate scrollwork. The rhinoceros theme continues to the trigger guard with a walking solitary rhinoceros, and the pistol grip cap with hinged trap cover chiselled with deep foliate scrollwork around a pair of rhino footprints. Finely figured 15 1/4 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 iron chiselled with foliate scrollwork en suite with remainder of the rifle. A pair of blued sling mounts with further foliate scroll chiselled ornament complete the rifle. Weight 13 lbs. 3 oz. In brass cornered oak and alligator skin takedown case with lift out tray, lined in green leather with gilt embossed Holland & Holland maker’s ‘label’ to the lid, the case containing a full complement of accessories, four empty boxes of Kynoch .600 Nitro Express cartridges and some Holland & Holland literature.

Excellent overall, retaining 99% plus original blue finish with limited handling evidence and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is excellent with minimal wear and absent straps. An incredible opportunity to acquire a true work of art by the late renowned Master Engraver Phillippe Grifnee at his absolute best. Provenance: Robert E. Petersen Collection