This European air gun likely dates to around the late 1700s, with no visible maker name. "Wind guns" had several advantages over conventional firearms including that they were quieter, smokeless, quicker to reload, and relatively unaffected by rain. They also required less cleaning since they did not require corrosive black powder. This example is chambered in approximately .48 caliber/12 mm and features a round smoothbore barrel with a wood shroud, brass post front sight, notch rear sight mounted on the brass frame, floral and animal engravings on the frame and lock, and a metal stock reservoir. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/2268" hanging from the hammer. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Fine, with scattered gray and brown patina on the iron surfaces, attractive golden aged patina on the brass, and sharp engraving overall. The wood barrel shroud is fine with scattered scratches, dents and some finish wear. Retains spring pressure, but does not cock.