Lot 294: Pair of H.W. Mortimer Flintlock Dueling Pistols

This late 18th century pair of dueling pistols from Harvey Walklate Mortimer (1753-1819) has smoothbore Damascus barrels with dovetailed blade front sights, gold bands and vent liners at the breeches along with "H.W./MORTIMER" sunken gold maker's marks on top, integral notch rear sights on the upper tangs along with floral and classical martial themed engraving, "H.W. Mortimer" signed lockplates, gold lined pans, rollers on the frizzens riding on small ramps on the frizzen springs, sliding safeties, burst pattern engraving on the stepped tails of the locks, spurred trigger guards with gilt oval crests consisting of a rampant collard dog over a crown on the bows along with pineapple and vase design trigger guard finials, adjustable single set triggers, silver forend caps and wedge escutcheons, checkered wrists with chevron molding, and a carved scroll and shell design on the pommels.

Fine out of the attic condition with mostly dark patina throughout including an attractive dark aged patina on the silver fittings. The barrel retains distinct Damascus patterns and has original brown finish blended with the patina. The right ear of the rear sight is chipped. The stock is also fine and has crisp checkering and carving and some scratches and dings. The safety is frozen, but the pistol is otherwise mechanically fine.

See "A."

Fine out of the attic condition with dark patina throughout, including dark aged patina on the silver. The markings and engraving remain distinct, and Damascus patterns remain visible along the barrel along with significant original brown finish blended with the patina. The stock is also fine and has crisp carving and checkering, a small flake at the nose of the lock, and general small scratches and dings. Mechanically fine. This is a classic pair of British dueling pistols by a talented maker that have clearly been untouched for a significant period of time.