The partnership between Joseph Griffin, the second generation of one of London’s most influential 18th century gun making dynasties, and John Tow lasted from 1772 until 1782. Joseph, the son of Benjamin Griffin, was made free of the Gunmakers Company in 1750 with his proof piece and mark being presented in 1759. He was appointed Gentlemen Armourer to His Majesty’s Stables-in-Ordinary in 1760, served as Master of the Gunmakers Company in 1762 and 1763, and was appointed Gunmaker to his Majesty in 1763. John Tow was successor to the business of Griffin & Tow from 1783, was appointed Armourer to His Majesty’s Stables in 1784, and continued to be contracted to the East India Company, a contract initiated whilst in partnership with Joseph Griffin, until his death in 1795. Dating to circa 1780, this blunderbuss has a slender four stage brass barrel with turned slightly belled muzzle and octagonal breech section engraved with a spray of foliage, signed “LONDON” and struck with the crowned maker’s mark “SS” of Stephen Sandwell and London view and proof marks. Foliate engraved iron barrel tang and rounded border engraved lock signed “GRIFFIN & TOW”. The walnut three quarter length stock is fitted with engraved brass mounts including solid scrolling side plate and butt plate, trigger guard with acorn finial, and large oval thumb escutcheon with an urn beneath and a rococo shell above and engraved with the monogram “WA”. A later horn tipped wooden ramrod with iron worm is housed beneath the forearm. The bore is estimated above and flares to about 1 inch at the muzzle.

Good. The barrel has a mellowed aged patina with well-defined turned girdles between each stage and the signature and breech engraving remaining clear. The iron barrel tang and lock have a dark discoloured patina with some wear to the engraved decoration. The signature on the lock is worn. The refinished stock has been cracked at the tip of the forearm, and one side has been repaired with a small filler insert repair. The stock has minor storage and handling blemishes throughout. Mechanically excellent.