Lot 289: Pair of Percussion Target Pistols from LePage of Paris

The Liege proofed barrels have fine grooved rifling, dovetailed blade front sights, "DAMAS D'ACIER DE PARIS" (Parisian Damascus steel) inlaid in gold on top with inlaid silver border, etched twist patterns and blued background finish, and floral engraved breech plugs marked "MB" and "1479" on the bottom. The serial number is repeated on the standing breech faces (minus the "1" on the second pistol), and the upper tangs also have gold inlaid "1" and "2" respectively, scroll engraving, and screw adjustable notch rear sights. The locks have "LEPAGE A PARIS" in gold inlay within gold inlaid banners and relief scroll engraving with birds. The spurred trigger guards and pommel caps have coordinating engraving. The pistols are equipped with adjustable single set triggers. The barrel key escutcheons are silver. The stocks have raised relief carved scrollwork at the forend tips and fluted wrists. The case has inlaid and engraved scrollwork on the lid, brass borders, a closely fitted interior with a mallet, ornate ladle, turned container, cleaning attachments, ball mold, combination screwdriver and nipple wrench, tiny powder flask, mainspring vice, oiler, ramrod, cleaning rod, and two empty compartments for ammunition.

Fine with distinct engraving and Damascus patterns, bright original gold inlays, dark aged patina on the silver, 20% original blue finish on the barrel, traces of original case colors, smooth gray patina on most of the balance, and generally mild overall wear. The stock is also fine and has crisp carving and fluting, a few scrapes, general minor dings, and attractive figure. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are generally fine with mild storage wear, some absent edge pieces on the interior, and faded lining. The exterior of the case is refinished.

See "A."

Fine with bright original gold inlays, dark aged patina on the silver, distinct engraving and etched Damascus patterns, 30% original blue finish on the barrel, silver-gray patina on most of the lock and furniture, some light oxidation and general minor overall wear. The stock is also fine and has attractive figure, crisp carving and fluting, and some minor scratches. Mechanically fine.