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  • /Lot 216

Lot 216:European Style Flintlock Pistol by Alvin A. White

December 6th, 2019|Rock Island, IL
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  • /Lot 216

Lot 216:European Style Flintlock Pistol by Alvin A. White

December 6th, 2019|Rock Island, IL
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Estimated Price$8,500 - $12,000
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Iconic and Well-Documented, Cased Ornately Chiseled, Relief Carved, Silver Mounted, and Gold Accented Ivory Stocked Exhibition Quality 18th Century European Style Flintlock Pistol by Alvin A. White from the White Collection

This extraordinary pistol is shown in Alvin Alexander White's hand in the well-known photograph of White and an array of his wares as seen on page 172 of "American Engravers" by Bleile and page 294 of "Steel Canvas: The Art of American Arms" by Wilson. It is also seen along with other White crafted arms on page 295 of the latter as are two other flintlock pistols in this auction. The pistol would not look out of place in a collection of arms from centuries past but was manufactured in the 20th century using traditional methods in White's small shop. It has a two-stage barrel with a spiral pattern on the front section, gold bands at the transition point and breech, ribbed breech section, raised relief chiseled scroll engraving, and a brass vent liner. The upper tang is also engraved. The lock has a mask on the frizzen, dolphin/fish design on the frizzen arm, relief engraving on the cock and plate which include a serpent design on the former and dog and pheasant design on the latter. The trigger has scroll pattern pierced designs. The ramrod ferrules are silver, and the entry pipe has a scroll engraved finial. The silver trigger guard has a rendition of Athena on the bow and a panoply of arms on the finial. The silver side plate has a knight lancing a dragon and a gilt background. The pommel cap has floral and scroll patterns and a gold plug. The wrist escutcheon is also gold. The stock has both incised and raised relief carving. Included is a French fitted case with a coordinating engraved small ball mold, carved shell shaped flask, key, lead balls, and flint. Provenance: The Alvin White Collection

ConditionVery fine with mostly gray patina on the lock and barrel, some light oxidation, aged patina on the silver, bright gold, some loss of the gilding on the side plate, minor age relate wear on the stock including some minor age cracks, and attractive antique appearance throughout. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are fine with mild age and storage related wear. This extraordinary pistol is a true work of art.
Details
ManufacturerA. White
ModelFlintlock
TypePistol
ClassAntique
Caliber / Gauge36
Barrel5 1/2 inch part octagon
Finishbright
Stockraised relief carved

Item LocationRock Island, IL
Views2081
Catalog page128
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