This is a desirable early pair of British flintlock pistols by John Williams. The characteristics of these pistols, which include serpent side plates, banana shaped lockplates, unbridled frizzens, and burl wood stocks with bulbous butts, suggest manufacture very early in the 18th century. There were multiple John Williams gunmakers active in London in the first half of the 18th century, including a John Williams who began as an apprentice in 1693, started his own business in 1700, and died in 1731. These desirable early pistols are signed "IOHN/WILLIAMS" on the locks and top of the barrels and have "IW" maker marks and London proofmarks on the left at the breech. The locks have light lined borders, fleur-de-lis style finials on the frizzen springs, and fenced pans. The barrels also have rounded blade front sights, girdled transition points and breeches, and light border engraving at the breech ends and tangs. The brass furniture has cast and engraved grotesque style patterns such as scrolling serpentine side plates and masks on the tendril pommel caps. The stocks have attractive contrasting burl/rootwood patterns.

Very good with dark brown and gray patina throughout, mild pitting, fairly distinct markings, crisp decoration, general moderate wear, and attractive aged patina on the furniture. The stock is also very good and has general light scratches and marks, a few small chips, spliced forend and other smaller discreet repairs, and attractive contrast. Mechanically fine.

See "A."

Very good with a mix of dark gray and brown patina, mild pitting, mostly distinct markings and designs, moderate overall wear, and nice aged patina on the furniture. The stock is also very good and has attractive contrasting finish, discreet repairs, general minor marks and scratches, and some small chips. Mechanically fine.