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The underside of the action shows
another African hunter boldly
taking on a bull elephant preparing
to throw his spear. The left lockplate
has a third hunter who, it seems is having
a bad day, having lost his weapons and is now fleeing from a bull rhinoceros.
The triggerguard displays a sable bull, and the lower tang shows an egret. The
piece is signed “K. E. PREATER” on the triggerplate to the right of the triggerguard
as well as “KP” at the bottom of the lockplate scenes and “P” below the scene on the underside. Ken Preater was
the chief engraver for Holland & Holland at the time this rifle was created, and one can see how he earned that title with
the exceptional level of skill and detail that the rifle exudes. The rifle features bushed firing pins, a right hand rolled triggerguard,
double triggers, and a tang mounted automatic safety switch with gold inlaid “SAFE” marking. Stunning, beautifully figured, multi-point
checkered forend with engraved fittings showing monkeys and an Anson button release, and a pistol grip stock with teardrop carved flats,
shadowline cheekpiece, engraved coin finished trapdoor grip cap showing a bull elephant, gold inscription oval with the initials “G.E.R.”, and a leather
covered recoil pad. Includes a factory oak and leather takedown case with canvas cover containing a full compliment of accessories. The rifle is pictured
and discussed on pages 88-90 of “The Best of Holland & Holland: England’s Premier Gunmaker” by Michael McIntosh & Jan Roosenburg where it is noted as part of the Petersen Museum Collection. Length of pull 14 1/2 inches. Weight 9 lbs. 15 oz.
CONDITION: Excellent overall, retaining 98% plus original blue, coin, and gold finishes with minor handling evidence, some minor areas of discoloration in the coin of the locks and action, and a few very minor scuffs in the blue. The stock and forend show a few scattered very minor scratches, some light rubbing on the toe of the recoil pad, and sharp checkering. The case is excellent. Mechanically excellent. Do not miss this chance to own this absolute beauty.
Provenance: The Petersen Museum Collection; Property of a Gentleman.
Estimate: 70,000 - 100,000
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