These pistols reflect the popular style in France and Belgium during the mid-19th century. The only visible markings are "Acier Fondu" (French for fluid steel) in gold on top of the barrels, the gold "1" and "2" markings on the respective pistols at the breech on the plugs and upper tangs, and oval Liege proofs on the left side of the barrels near the breech. The barrels under the stock lines also have additional proof/inspection marks, "124," and "37" (only on "A," possibly the bore size). The barrels have flutes along the midsections with silver-gilt plating. The inside of the forends have "JF." The locks are engraved with scenes of cheetahs or leopards on "A" and a tiger on "B," the trigger guards have birds, the upper tangs have elfish masks, and the rest of the French gray metal components are mainly engraved with scroll patterns. The stocks have relief engraved scroll patterns. The highly figured case has inlaid scroll and floral patterns, red lining, loading and cleaning rods, a worm, measure, powder flask, nipple wrench, screwdriver, and cap container.

Very fine with 85% plus original blue finish, bright original gold, aged patina on the silver-gilt in the barrel flutes, some minor pitting on the left near the forend tip, smooth gray on most of the lock and furniture along with crisp engraving, some spots of minor oxidation around the breech, and minor storage related wear. The stock is fine and has a thin crack in the wrist, minor wear, and crisp carving. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine and has general mild wear. The exterior has some detached corner pieces (inside the case). The interior remains bright, and the accessories are generally fine with mild storage wear.

See "A."

Very fine with 85% plus original blue finish, bright original gold, aged patina on the silver-gilt in the barrel flutes, small spot of minor oxidation pitting on the left above the forend tip, smooth gray on most of the lock and furniture along with crisp engraving, some spots of minor oxidation around the breech, and minor storage related wear. The stock is fine and has crisp carving, some thing cracks at the left flat, and otherwise minor wear. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.