Desirable Boutet Versailles Boxlock Flintlock Pocket Pistol
This small flintlock pocket pistol is the same basic form as the pocket pistols from the famous Napoleon garniture and is signed "Boutet/Directeur artiste" on the right and "Manufact/a Versailles" on the left and has some light floral and border engraving. "1" is marked on the bottom of the barrel and action. The action has a sliding safety button on top, and the pistol has a finely checkered walnut grip. Boxlock pocket pistols like this were popular products of from Boutet both at Versailles and when he returned to private life in Paris after the fall of Napoleon. Similar examples can be seen in Dean Taylor's American Society of Arms Collectors article "The Pocket Pistols (Pistolet l'Ecossaise) of Nicholas Noel Boutet," particularly the example on page 68 from Taylor's collection which is nearly identical from what can be seen. An "18" or "81" removable inventory number is on the lower tang. Provenance: The Collection of Joe M. Wanenmacher Jr
Very good with mostly silver-gray patina, some light pitting, and general mild wear. The grip is also very good and has mild handling wear and light scratches and dings. Mechanically fine.
