This rifle would have been part of a pair used for hunting and/or target shooting as indicated by the "2" on the breech. A matched pair allowed wealthy hunters quick follow-up shots. Note the deer on the left side of the butt. Wheel lock rifles are known to have been particularly popular for deer hunting by Germanic nobles well into the 18th century. The barrel also has a blade front sight, two leaf rear sight, and a "crown/GK" hallmark. The mark is that of Georg Keiser of Vienna (active around 1665-1740) as shown on page 615 of "Der Neue Stockel" by Eugene Heer and seen on other rifles with his signature, and the overall style matches rifles by him estimated to have been manufactured around 1700. The lock plate itself is plain, but the components are finely shaped and engraved. The stock has scrimshwaw patterns on the staghorn forend cap, ramrod pipe, lock screw washers, and cheekpiece inlay; a horn buttplate, and extensive floral patterns and hunting scenes in relief carving. The pan spring is loose in the patch box. The trigger plate has a "P 1942 -4-11/82d" collection type marking in black ink.

Very good overall. The iron components exhibit a mix of gray and brown patina, mild pitting, and moderate overall wear. Some small lock components, such as the pan button and pan spring, are replacements. The stock has distinct carving, some small insect holes, a subtle crack ahead of the trigger guard, and scattered scratches and slight chips. Some of the staghorn inlays appear to be replacements. Mechanically untested.