In the late 18th century air guns were not only seen as a novelty item but also a useful hunting and military weapon, with a somewhat similar design by Girardoni being adopted by the Austrian military. This example is also likely of Austrian or German origin and features an exposed lock, giving it a similar look to the more standard flintlock arms of the time. The left side of the lock is lightly engraved with a crown crested coat of arms, but the piece is otherwise devoid of markings. The barrel is finished in brown lacquer and the reservoir has a fitted suede sheath.

Very good, the exposed iron showing mostly a smooth grey patina with some scattered patches of mild pitting, slightly softened engraving, and the barrel retains most of the reapplied brown lacquer finish with some scattered minor flaking. The leather gaskets appear to be replacements and the reservoir sheath is of recent manufacture. Mechanically untested, though the lock appears to function correctly.