Thomas Elsworth Mortimer was the great nephew of the famous Harvey Walklate Mortimer. He opened premises in both London and Edinburgh before concentrating his business solely in Scotland. His company succeeded to that of Joseph Harkom in 1922 before itself being succeeded to John Dickson & Son in 1938. Dating to circa 1840, with browned damascus twist octagonal barrel with rear sight of one standing and two folding leaves graduated to 200 yards and patent breech with platinum plug. Border and scroll engraved casehardened lock with safety catch and signed “T.E. MORTIMER”. Furniture including blued trigger guard engraved with a panel scene of a running stag. Well figured straight hand walnut stock with checkered grip. Iron ramrod. In fitted oak case lined in green baize, the lid with large printed T.E. Mortimer trade label, and some accessories including powder flask, wad punch, bullet mold and percussion cap tin. The exterior of the lid with escutcheon engraved “BLYTHSWOOD RIFLE”. It is thought that this rifle may have been built for Campbell of Blythswood, first Baron Blythswood.

Barrels retaining 30% fading original browned finish, signature softened. Standing breech and lock with slight traces of original casehardened finish, remainder turned to a grey patina. Trigger guard retaining 65% original blued finish, butt plate with traces of blued finish. Engraving clear throughout, some softening. Stock with handling marks, some deeper bruises, checkering shallow but clear. Case in good condition, lid cracked along the grain, label stained, lid lining with very slight mothing. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.