This extremely scarce lever action pistol is one of an estimated 100 manufactured by the Italian maker Venditti of Lancusi. The pistol is similar to the American Volcanic pistol as it uses a lever action mechanism to feed cartridges from a tube magazine into the breech and fires a similar self-contained cartridge. Venditti manufactured these pistols in the mid-1850s with the limited production run halted because Venditti was imprisoned for murdering a man in a brawl. Released in the 1870s, Venditti attempted to once again produce his pistol, but by then the design was obsolete. The top barrel flat is marked "VENDITTI E CI LANCUSI." This marking is flanked by factory engraved scrollwork. The scrollwork extends to the top of the frame, frame sides at the front, and side plates. The back strap is engraved with scrollwork and a geometric line pattern. The frame is brass with iron side plates. The pistol has fixed sights, an Italian proofed (crown over shield) frame, and a 10-shot tubular magazine. The two-piece grips are checkered and have engraved screw escutcheons. The butt has provision for a lanyard ring.

Very good plus. The brass frame has an attractive honey appearance. Half of the original blue finish remains on the magazine block, some strong amounts of original blue remain on the side plates and the barrel has a mottled gray patina. There is some scattered minor pitting. The engraving is crisp overall. The grips are very good as slightly undersized and showing some minor handling marks and some wear in the recut checkering. Mechanically fine. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.