Manufactured in circa 1895, this finally engraved gun is possibly the work of Henry Kell, father of the famous Harry Kell who is considered to be the finest British game scene engraver of the first half of the 20th century, a famous apprentice of his being the great Ken Hunt. With browned fine damascus twist barrels each engraved with a band of stylized foliage at the breech end and respectively signed "W. & C. SCOTT & SON THE PREMIER 10 GT. CASTLE STREET" and "REGENT CIRCUS. LONDON." Raised flat file cut matted rib with bead front sight and a small panel of engraved scrollwork at the breech end and cross bolt rib extension with an engraved roundel stating "SCOTT’S/IMPROVED/BOLT." Casehardened action and locks each finely engraved with tight scrollwork and vignettes involving game birds. The action with blued toplever and automatic safety catch. The face of the action with gas escape grooves and stamped "PAT-10084-88/No. 273" (for the Perkes ejector mechanism), engraved "The Premier Gun" in script, stamped with the Scott "Tower" trademark and "W. & C. SCOTT & SON/MAKERS." Furniture engraved en suite. Highly figured semi-pistol grip stock with checkered grip and forearm, the wrist inset with a gold and wood shield shaped escutcheon engraved with a monogram. Barrels and action struck with London nitro proof and reproof marks. The barrels proved at .729/.729, measuring .732/.732+, 2 1/2 inch chambers, minimum wall thickness 0.026 and 0.022. Weight 7 lbs. 2.8 oz. In brass cornered fitted leather case lined in green baize, the lid with gilt lettered black leather W&C Scott trade label. With some accessories including Hawksley oiler and Dixon chamber brush. The exterior of the lid initialed "H.H.B."

Barrels retaining 95% original browned finish, engraving and signatures clear and sharp, a very small patch of fine scratches to the underside of the left barrel in towards the rib. Action and locks retaining 50% original faded casehardened finish, engraving sharp, the game bird vignettes are extremely delicate work. Stock with deep lustrous finish, some scattered minor storage and handling blemishes and marks, checkering sharp. Mechanically excellent. Case in good refurbished condition, baize lining to the lid does not match the main compartments. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.