Lot 1394:Caron Cased Pair of Engraved Liege Proofed Boxlock Muff Pistols

December 4th, 2021|Rock Island, IL

Lot 1394:Caron Cased Pair of Engraved Liege Proofed Boxlock Muff Pistols

December 4th, 2021|Rock Island, IL

Price Realized:

Estimated Price$2,500 - $4,000

A) Liege Proofed Muff Pistol

This pair of pistols does not have maker's marks but was likely manufactured by Alphonse Caron of Paris or his son c. the mid-1800's. The pistols each have Liege proofs on the left of the breech as well as "crown/L" and "D" on the bottom of the breeches. The locks both feature near full coverage floral scroll engraving, and the twist off barrels show an attractive Damascus twist. They are fitted with notch rear sights, sculpted fences, and folding triggers, as well as smooth antique ivory grips with carved flats. The pair are housed in a leather wrapped, lightly tooled, hardwood case with gold "CARON/ARQUEBUSIER DU ROI/PASSAGE DE L'OPERA N 20" inside the lid, lined in dark blue baize, and French fit for both pistols along with the included ball mold and antique ivory powder flask.

ConditionVery good, showing mostly a bright grey patina with traces of the original brown and attractive Damascus twist pattern on the barrel. The grip is good with a minor crack in each of the flats and a few hairline age cracks. Mechanically excellent.

Details

ManufacturerFrench

ModelMuff Pistol

TypePistol

ClassAntique

Caliber / Gauge45

Barrel1 3/4 inch round

Finishbrown/bright

Gripantique ivory

Item LocationRock Island, IL

Catalog page195

B) Liege Proofed Muff Pistol

See "A".

ConditionVery good, showing mostly a bright grey patina with traces of the original brown, attractive twist pattern on the barrel, and a patch of brown patina on the upper right of the barrel at the breech. The grip is good with a repaired splice on the upper left and a few scattered hairline age cracks. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are very good generally showing mild wear.