This early 18th century pistol is featured in "The Visser Collection" Vol. 1, Part 4 on pages 458-459 and was most likely produced in Liege and has a "GR" barrel-maker's mark below the vent (see "Der Neue Stockel" 2075) but otherwise no signature or identifying markings. Similar pistols from the Visser collection were produced by Daniel Theirmay (see Vol. 1, Part 2 pages 312-315). The smoothbore barrel has a rounded brass blade front sight, sighting flat, relief chiseled scroll and foliage patterns with some gilt backgrounds, a grotesque mask, a raised brass grotesque mask, and raised brass tang with rear sight groove. The engraved brass lock plate has a mythical beast at the center, floral patterns, borders, a lion mask cock screw, a faceted pan, and floral chiseled frizzen. The brass side plate is an elaborate pierced scrolling design inhabited by multiple mask designs. The other furniture is also brass and includes case and engraved floral patterns, a grotesque mask pommel stud, and fleur-de-lis finial on the trigger guard. The walnut stock has raised molding and raised floral carving. "1211" is marked in white on the left side above the trigger. Provenance: The H.L. Visser Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Fine with mostly silver-gray patina on the iron, some minor pitting, dark aged patina on the lock plate and furniture, distinct engraving, and minor overall wear. The stock is also fine aside from repaired cracks through the wrist and forend tip and has distinct carving and molding, minor dings and scratches, and fairly light overall wear. Mechanically fine.