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LOT 3239
Attractive Finely Engraved and Gold Inlaid Exhibition Quality Austrian Double Barrel Over/Under Percussion Rifle - NSN, 32 Bore cal., 24 3/4 inch solid rib bbl., bright/gold finish, walnut stock. Dating to circa 1850-1860, with etched fine Damascus barrels each cut with eight grooves and with decorative gold inlaid lines at the breech ends. The upper barrel has a dovetailed bead front sight and notch back sight and is signed
“F. BARTUSCH IN WIEN” in gold towards the breech. A later horn-tipped wooden ramrod is fitted
between the barrels on the right side and a sling mount fitted to the lower barrel. The breeches
fitted on each side with gravitating safety stops. One piece standing breech extending to the
trigger plate, the latter fitted two triggers, the front trigger for the upper barrel with set mechanism.
Back action locks respectively signed “F. Bartusch” and “In Wien”. Furniture comprising flat fronted
trigger guard with dark horn pierced and scrolled finger rest, hinged patchbox cover and heel plate.
With fine tight scroll engraving throughout. Well-figured walnut stock with raised cheekpiece and
checkered panels to the grip, the rear sling mount fitted to the underside of the butt.
CONDITION: Fine. The barrels have very attractive Damascus patterns and retain the delicate
textured etched finish. Breeches, standing breech, locks and mounts have a bright finish with crisp
engraving throughout. The stock has been refinished with an attractive figure pattern and minor
storage and handling blemishes. The set trigger mechanism requires attention.
Mechanically excellent.
170 Estimate: 6,000 - 9,000