This is certainly a rare example of an early 18th century breech loading flintlock cartridge sporting gun with no visible maker marks, although it appears to have had them at one time, and sharing strong similarities with LOT 3283 in this auction, also out of the renowned collection of Joe M. Wanenmacher Jr. Loading is performed through the act of the user wrapping their palm around the wrist of the stock and using their fingers to squeeze the trigger guard upwards, which then unlocks the breech and allows the barrel to swing to the left at a forty-five degree angle. It utilizes a removable thick steel cartridge that is able to be loaded with powder and ball and reused, acting as the chamber when inserted into the breech end of the gun. Engraving visible on the lock, hammer, sideplate and buttplate. Strong traces of gold inlaid floral scenery on top of the receiver breech with what appears to be a gold inlaid maker name on top of the breech of the smoothbore barrel with gold inlaid rings and on either end of the round section. "17" stamped in the wood behind the upper receiver tang. Provenance: The Collection of Joe M. Wanenmacher Jr

Good, displaying a mix of gray of brown patina with scattered light pin-prick pitting and light wear, strong traces of gold inlaid designs, with otherwise defined engraving. Stock is good as lightly sanded and re-oiled, with numerous scattered scratches and dents, a few old filled in repairs visible at the edges, and a few small chips below the front of the sideplate. Mechanically excellent. An advanced early 18th century breech loading flintlock cartridge firearm that would make a fine addition to any early European arms collection!