Lot 380:Pair of Dragon Engraved and Inlaid Japanese Matchlock Pistols

December 3rd, 2021|Rock Island, IL

Lot 380:Pair of Dragon Engraved and Inlaid Japanese Matchlock Pistols

December 3rd, 2021|Rock Island, IL

Price Realized:

Estimated Price$3,500 - $5,500

A) Japanese Matchlock Pistol

The Japanese used matchlock firearms for centuries, but the pistols (tanzutsu) were and remain less common than full length arquebuses. Matching pairs like this are even rarer. These pistols have a dragon wrapped around a sword design engraved on the barrels and highlighted with silver and gold, blade and grooved block sights, and some floral accents.

ConditionFine with dark brown patina on the barrel, aged patina on the brass and inlays, and mild overall wear. The stock is also fine and has some mild dings and scratches and some faint hairline cracks. Mechanically fine.

Details

ManufacturerJapanese

ModelMatchlock

TypePistol

ClassAntique

Caliber / Gauge54

Barrel13 inch flat top round

Finishgold/silver/brown

Stockhardwood

Item LocationRock Island, IL

Catalog page232

B) Japanese Matchlock Pistol

See "A."

ConditionFine with mostly dark brown patina along the barrel, aged patina on the brass and inlays, and mild overall wear. The stock is also fine and has some minor dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.