Rifled brass barrels are rarely seen, but examples from Continental Europe and the U.S. are known in limited numbers. While alloy barrels are not as strong as iron/steel barrels, they have the advantage of being resistant to corrosion. The barrel on this attractive hunting rifle has seven-groove rifling, a dovetailed blade front sight, notch rear sight with ornate finial (folding notch absent), and scroll engraving on the breech section inhabited by a bestial mask. The lock has grotesque masks on the tail and cock screw, additional mask designs among the engraving on the cock, and a stag and scrollwork on the plate. Coordinating scroll and mask patterns are on the brass furniture, including on the heavily pierced side plate and the ornate wrist escutcheon which has coronet, classical figure, and martial trophies. beautifully figured, burl walnut stock has fine molding and some raised relief scroll carving. The patch box lid, cheekpiece edge, forend tip, and ramrod tip are horn. Provenance: The Tom Lewis Collection

Fine with attractive natural aged patina on the brass throughout, smooth gray and brown patina on the iron components, and mild overall wear. The engraved and cast designs throughout are distinct. The stock is very good with a repaired break in the midsection, some small chips and slivers absent from the edges, distinct carving, beautiful figure, and general mild overall wear. Mechanically fine.