The makers records confirm that this magnificent rifle was made for Jodhpur (incorrectly noted as “Joudhpor” in the ledger) in 1857. With substantial browned Damascus twist octagonal barrel signed on the right upper flat “CHARLES LANCASTER. 151. NEW BOND ST.T. LONDON. REGISTERED APRIL 19, 1848”, and with matted top flat with fine bead front sight and blued rear sight of one standing and two folding leaves each with gold inlaid center line and respectively graduated “80”, “150” and “200” yards. Casehardened engraved patent breech with platinum plug, inlaid gold line and gold lined maker’s stamped “CHARLES LANCASTER LONDON”. Finely scroll engraved gilt standing breech, lock and furniture including hinged patch box cover, pistol grip trigger guard and checkered butt plate. The lock signed “C. LANCASTER LONDON” on ribbons and with blued safety catch and blued pins. The underside of the barrel struck with London proof marks and barrelsmith’s mark “CL” for Charles Lancaster. Finely figured straight hand half stock with raised cheekpiece, checkered grip and forearm, and blank silver initial escutcheon on the underside of the butt. A large blued sling button fitted to the underside of the butt with a corresponding sling mount on the ramrod pipe. With original brass mounted ramrod with worm. In original brass cornered mahogany case lined in dark blue velvet with accessories including brass ball mold serial numbered to rifle number 2952, the lid with printed Charles Lancaster trade label.

In fabulous condition retaining 98% original browned finish, 99% original casehardened finish to breech, 98% original gilt finish to locks and mounts. Stock has been refinished and is in excellent condition, some slight age related storage blemishes in general, the underside of the forearm within the checkered panel with a flattened area. Case is in good condition as externally refinished, some wear to lining on compartment lids. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.