This impressive howdah pistol was manufactured in circa 1868 for a Captain Arbuthnot according to the factory ledger by Harris Holland prior to his joining forces with his nephew and forming the world famous firm of Holland & Holland in 1876. With blued barrels with concave rib signed “H. HOLLAND. 98. NEW BOND STREET. LONDON” and with bead front sight and engraved with a band of stylised foliage at the breech ends. Casehardened action with long top strap and curved non-rebounding back action locks each with safety catch, hare’s ear hammer and signed “H. HOLLAND” within a ribbon. Blued trigger guard. Barrels and action struck with London black powder proof marks. The water table struck with a mark, “B” beneath crossed scepters above the word “PATENT” and the patent use number “557”. Figured stock with checkered butt and forearm, the butt with horn cap. With oak fitted case, the lid with printed H. Holland trade label. A copy of the maker’s record entry for this pistol accompanies this lot as well as documents regarding the accessories.

Very good with barrels retaining nearly all of the reblued finish, signature clear. Action, locks and some furniture retaining faded traces of original casehardened finish, with some discoloration. The inside surface of the forearm with bright original casehardened finish. Stock with numerous small age related blemishes, checkering good. Case of recent manufacture and in fine condition. Mechanically excellent. This is a rare opportunity to own a true Howdah pistol! Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.