Manufactured in circa 1889, with blacked barrels with raised partially matted rib signed “MADE EXPRESSLY FOR HIS HIGHNESS THE NIZAM OF HYDERABAD. DECCAN.” in gold at the mid-point, with bead front sight with flip-up moon sight and rear sight of one standing and two folding leaves each with platinum inlaid center line and graduated from “50” to “250” yards. The barrels respectively signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND. 98. NEW BOND STREET. LONDON.” and “WINNERS OF ALL THE “FIELD” RIFLE TRIALS. LONDON 1883.”, engraved with a broad band of foliage at the breech ends, and doll’s head extension with gold inlaid “3”. Casehardened action with automatic safety with gold inlaid “SAFE” and blued top lever with gold inlaid “3”, the left side of the action engraved “CHARGE 6 DRAMS. CASE 3 INCHES”. Casehardened back action locks each with cocking indicator and signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND”. Border and scroll engraved throughout. Well figured pistol grip stock with raised cheekpiece, checkered grip and forearm, and blank gold initial oval on the underside of the butt. Barrels and action struck with London black powder proof marks. With lightweight leather case with accessories, the lid with Holland & Holland printed trade labels. A copy of the maker’s ledger entry accompany this Lot confirming the order was for “Nizam”, unfortunately the record is undated.

Very fine as partially refurbished with nearly all of the blacked barrel finish remaining, slightly softened engraved signatures will all of the gold inlay in good condition, and some areas of smoothed pitting. Action and locks with 70% slightly faded original casehardened finish with crisp engraving throughout. The stock has some age related scratches and dings, with sharp checkering, and some slight gaps at the metal junctures. Case is very good with some age related wear. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.