The makers have kindly confirmed that this rifle was made in 1885 for the Herzog von Braganza with delivery taking place on February 1, 1886. The Herzog von Braganza (Duke of Braganza), originally a hereditary title given to the heir to the throne of Portugal, at this time was Michael Maria Carlos (1853-1927). Born in exile after his father (Michael I of Portugal) lost his throne to his brother Peter I of Brazil (who then became Peter IV of Portugal), Michael married into European nobility and was close to the Austrian imperial court. Judging by the unique white metal engraved game record inset into the right side of the stock of this fine rifle, the Duke of Braganza and this rifle were very well-travelled with game from wild boar and various species of deer to tiger, panther, alligator, king vulture, eagles and Indian fox being recorded with rows of small pins. With browned Damascus barrels respectively signed “J. SPRINGER. 7267” and “JOH. SPRINGER’S ERBEN IN WIEN” with a raised matted rib with blade front sight and standing notch rear sight. Casehardened action with carved percussion fences, permanently attached forearm, and non-rebounding bolted backaction locks each signed “JOH. SPRINGER’S ERBEN IN WIEN”. Casehardened trigger plate with two set triggers, casehardened trigger guard, underlever, pistol grip cap and heel plate, the last with hinged trap cover. The whole with border and scroll engraving. Well-figured 13 1/2 inch pistol grip stock with multipoint checkering to the grip and forearm. Together with a modern print copy of the travel diary of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in German “Tagebuch Meiner Reise Un Die Erde 1892-1893”.

Fine as partially refinished. The barrels retain near 100% rebrowned finish with minor evidence of corrosion spotting on the rib, barrel signatures refreshed. Action retains 95% renewed casehardened finish with clear engraving, colors strong around the fences, a small patch of pitting noted on the left side beneath the fence. Locks retain 90% fading original casehardened finish. Engraving generally clear throughout. Stock is good with scattered age related storage and handling marks and blemishes. Guide lines for the game record pins visible, engraving to the game record plaque clear. Checkering remains well defined. Set trigger mechanism for the right barrel sticking. Mechanically excellent.