Possibly made for the Balkan market, circa 1780. With two stage octagonal to round sighted barrel with turned beaded girdle, silver spider front sight, gold inlaid makers marks for Cristiano Leoni of Pistoia, Tuscany (Der Neue Stockel no. 7774 and 7775), brass lined touch hole and short engraved barrel tang numbered “3”. Rounded lock signed “WILSON” beneath the priming pan with water drains. The figured walnut full length stock is carved in low relief with scrollwork around the barrel tang, trigger guard and ramrod entry pipe, and fitted with full silver mounts including shaped solid side plate and spurred pommel engraved with scrollwork, shells and flower heads. A large silver escutcheon is inset behind the barrel tang and is engraved with a coat of arms beneath a ducal crown, and a later wooden ramrod is housed beneath the forearm.

Fine. The barrel has sharp edges and clear makers stamps, the surface has a dark patina with traces of blued finish remaining. The lock is lightly discoloured and has a crisp signature. The stock has been refinished and has minor age related storage and handling marks. The mounts are in good condition with crisp and clear engraving, the right hand spur of the pommel is loose. Mechanically excellent.

As described in “A”, the tang numbered “4”.

Very good. In comparable condition with “A” with the exception of the butt which is cracked through and partially repaired.