The maker’s records confirm that this rifle was sold to a Capt. A. Gordon in 1849. With browned octagonal damascus barrel signed “CHARLES LANCASTER. 151 NEW BOND ST. LONDON” towards the breech and with bead front sight and rear express sight of four folding leaves. Patent breech with platinum inlaid line, slotted platinum plug and platinum lined maker’s stamp “CHARLES LANCASTER LONDON”. Standing breech, side lock and furniture with profuse border and scroll engraving, as well as a running stag and hind on the trigger guard with pineapple finial. The lock signed “C. LANCASTER LONDON” on ribbons and with safety catch. Figured walnut pistol grip half stock with raised cheekpiece, checkered grip and forearm, and dark horn forearm cap. The underside of the butt with blank gold oval initial escutcheon and engraved stud for a sling, a corresponding sling eye is fitted to the central ramrod pipe beneath the barrel. The right side of the butt with hinged patch box cover engraved with a running leopard with palm trees in the background. With brass mounted ramrod with worm. London proof marks and barrel maker’s mark “C.L.” for Charles Lancaster.

Barrel cut with two deep grooves for belted ball, retaining nearly all of the rebrowned finish, attractive damascus pattern, clear signature. Standing breech, lock and furniture with clear engraving, cleaned bright with a light grey patina. The replacement hammer retains nearly all of its casehardened finish. Patch box, trigger guard and butt plate with game scene vignettes. Stock refinished, well defined checkering, grip with palm swell. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.