The makers have kindly confirmed that this rare early percussion shotgun was completed in circa 1823 for a Mr. Fielding with 30 inch barrels, 16 bore caliber and with a charge noted as 2 5/8 drams of powder. L. Patrick Unsworth lists this gun on page 186 of “The Early Purdeys” as having a “Patent safety”. The serial number can be found struck on the top edge of each lock plate and partially visible on the lower tang. With browned Damascus barrels signed “JAMES PURDEY. 314 1/2 OXFORD STREET. LONDON” on the concave rib and engraved with scrollwork at the breech ends. Casehardened patent breeches each with platinum plug. Slightly curved locks each signed “PURDEY” and engraved with the sea serpent and scrollwork design that characterized early Purdey firearms. The lower part of each hammer is shaped to accept the tip of a Purdey patent gravitating safety stop, the stops now absent. Well figured walnut stock with checkered grip and silver escutcheon inset at the wrist engraved “C.B. WALE GIFT OF COL. MAHON”. Engraved iron mounts including trigger guard with large bow, and ramrod. In a period oak case refitted and relined in red baize, the lid with the original J. Purdey printed blue ink trade label with handwritten loading instructions. With accessories including powder flask, percussion cap tin and oiler.

Barrels retaining 99% rebrowned finish, with recut signature marking. Breeches with very slight traces of original casehardened finish to the underside. Standing breech, locks and furniture all a light grey patina with some discoloration, engraving clear throughout, softened in places. Each lock has a filled aperture for the now removed Purdey patent gravitating safety stop. The left hammer has a repair to the nose and a replacement retaining screw. Stock refinished, checkering recut, repaired crack to rear of left over horn. In associated oak case, relined in red baize, lid with original period Purdey trade label with handwritten loading instructions annotated to the edges, serial number of gun not mentioned. Powder flask of correct type for a Purdey case. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.