This stunning sporting gun was the work of at least three Eibar artisans in the early 19th century. A "crown/BVS/TIN/DVI" barrelmarker's mark (Juan Estaban Bustindui) along with fleurs-de-lis, a cross, and a rampant lion in gold are on the breech section as well as a gold inlaid border and gold floral scroll patterns. A "crown/AL/BER/DI" maker's mark on the trigger guard. The lock maker's mark appears to be "crown/ECO/ABA." The smoothbore barrel has a golden blade front sight with gold inlaid accents. The vent has a gold liner. The standing breech has a "dished" rear sight and floral engraving. The lock has engraved and chiseled scroll accents and borders, a gold lined pan, and a serrated frizzen. The furniture is iron and also has floral and scroll chiseling and engraving with some gilt backgrounds. The Madrid type stock is nearly full-length and has excellent molding, raised relief carved floral carving, and an attractive fluted butt. A "F.W. ROEBLING III/COLLECTION/TRENTON, N. J./5" tag accompanies this classic Spanish sporting gun. Provenance: The F.W. Roebling III Collection; The Collection of Joe M. Wanenmacher Jr

Fine with 50% original blue finish, nearly all of the bright original gold inlay remaining on the barrel and lock, most remaining on the furniture, proud tang, crisp engraving, mild oxidation and pitting mainly on the barrel, and general mild overall wear. The stock is also fine and has crisp carving, minor dings and scratches, a few minor flakes at the edges, and smooth finish. Mechanically fine.