The makers have kindly confirmed that this impressive large rifle was completed in 1881 for a Mr. Houghton. With browned Damascus barrels respectively signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND” and “98. NEW BOND ST. LONDON.” and engraved with a band of stylised foliage at the breech end. Solid file cut matted rib with standing single leaf back sight, bead front sight and doll’s head extension. Casehardened action with carved percussion fences and engraved “CHARGE 8 TO 10 DRAMS LENGTH OF CASE 3 1/4 INCHES”. Backaction non-rebounding locks each with safety catch. The action, locks and furniture all border engraved throughout. Figured walnut pistol grip stock with checkered grip and forearm, raised cheekpiece and rubber recoil pad. The barrels and action struck with London black powder proof marks. Weight 15 lbs. 15 oz. In original makers brass cornered oak and leather fitted case lined in red baize, the lid with large printed Holland & Holland trade label. Provenance: Thomas R. Prudente Collection, Christie’s, London, December 17, 2015, lot 160; Anon. sale, Christie’s, London, November 13, 1985, lot 5. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection

Barrels retaining nearly all of the rebrowned finish, crisp signature, file cut rib, occasional corrosion spots under finish to underside. Action retaining traces of original casehardened finish to water table, beyond that the action and locks have a dark discoloured patina. Engraving and lock signatures clear. Underlever and trigger guard with nearly all of the reblued finish. Good figure to the stock, some mostly minor handling marks, edges with some slight chipping around the locks, small insert repair to stock behind the tail of the right lock. Case with external discoloration, staining and handling wear, wooden edges to base damaged, label in lid incomplete.