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LOT 3286
Attractive Engraved Gilt Brass Barrel Wheellock
Sporting Rifle - NSN, 65 cal., 27 3/8 inch octagon bbl., gold
finish, relief carved hardwood stock. This unusual rifle dates to the mid-17th century and was
later purchased by Norman R. Blank at a Christie’s auction on 8th July 1980, lot 69. In the Christie’s
catalog it was noted as coming from the collection of Prince Hohenzollern, Sigmaringen. The rifle has
no visible maker’s marks. The swamped octagonal brass barrel has eight-groove rifling, blade front and
two-leaf rear sights, panels of floral engraving, and a gilt finish. The flat lock has an enclosed wheel and
is also gilded and decorated with punched floral patterns. The mounts are also gilt brass.
The blackened stock has relief floral and martial trophy pattern carving and the collection
inventory number “261.” in red paint.
CONDITION: Very fine. The mid-17th century barrel with clear engraving, retaining 85% plus gilding to the upper five surfaces,
and some dents to the upper surfaces. Lock with crisp punched decoration, retaining 90% plus gilding, stem of dog cracked.
Stock is fine with numerous scattered scratches, dings and a small repair. Later ramrod. Mechanism not tested. Overall, an
attractive and certainly unusual early rifle with a rifled brass barrel.
Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection; Property of a Gentleman.
Estimate: 15,000 - 25,000