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LOT 1265
Ornate Engraved, Gold Inlaid, Silver Mounted and Carved Benjamin Griffin Flintlock
Gun with Francisco Bis Spanish Barrel and 1744 Hallmarks - NSN, 16 gauge cal., 39 3/4 inch
part octagon bbl., blue/gold/bright/silver finish, walnut stock. This extraordinary gun features
London hallmarks, including the “i” date code for 1744 and “JA” silversmith’s mark (Jeremiah
Ashley). The gun is by Benjamin Griffin (d. 1770) with a Spanish barrel from Francisco Antonio
Baeza y Bis (appointed gunsmith to King Felipe V in 1740, d. 1765). The blued, two-stage, smoothbore
barrel has a gold blade front sight with inlaid gold “spider” base, chiseled and turned decorative girdles at
the transition point, sunken gold lined maker’s marks including “FRAN/BIS” at the breech along with gold scrolls
and band, London proof marks flanking a “crown/F” mark, and a gold lined vent. The standing breech is grooved and engraved. The flat beveled lock is
signed “GRIFFIN” at the center among the scroll engraving and has martial trophies engraved on the tail. The mounts are silver. The side plate displays
pierced floral, martial trophy, and bird motifs. The escutcheon features a spread wing eagle at the top, a bow on the right, quiver of arrows on the left,
floral blooms at the base, and an engraved coronet over a Pegasus crest. The other silver mounts feature cast and engraved decoration, including foliate
finials and engraved martial motifs. The stock features scroll carving accenting the flats, shell carving at ramrod entry and the top of the wrist, molding, and
approximately 13 1/2 inch length of pull. Includes a long fabric covered barrel tampion.
CONDITION: Fine overall with distinct engraving, markings, and carving; 75% plus original blue finish, bright original gold, and mild oxidation/pitting along
the barrel; gray and brown patina on the lock, slight loss on the edge of the cock screw, attractively aged patina on the silver mounts, re-oiled stock, and
mild wear mainly from age and storage such as mild scratches and dings on the stock. Mechanically functions.
Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection.
Estimate: 9,500 - 16,000
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