Dating to circa 1800, this blunderbuss has a four stage brass barrel with full length iron spring bayonet above, turned slightly belled muzzle and short octagonal breech section engraved with a band of beadwork, signed “LONDON” and struck with Tower Private proof marks. The border engraved iron barrel tang is fitted with the sliding bayonet release catch, and the flat bevelled lock is profusely engraved with scrollwork and flower heads, and with stepped tail and safety catch. The engraving is of high quality, possibly for exhibition. Walnut three quarter length stock fitted with brass mounts including large oval thumb escutcheon engraved with a band of beadwork en suite with the breech, butt plate engraved with rococo scrollwork and trigger guard with acorn finial. A brass tipped wooden ramrod is housed beneath the forearm. The bore is estimated above and flares to about 7/8 inch at the muzzle.

Fine. The barrel has well-defined turned girdles between each stage, and the signature and engraved beadwork remains clear. The engraving to the brass mounts is clear throughout. The lock has a dark patina with a slight softening to the engraved decoration. The refinished stock is very good with a small crack visible on the left side of the forearm, minor storage and handling blemishes throughout, and a repair to the toe of the butt. Mechanically excellent.