Lot Essay
Charles Piper was apprenticed to Robert Wilkins of Eton (1781-98) in 1781, and was himself still working in Eton in 1805. He is subsequently recorded in Windsor 1823-30
Details
A 14-BORE FLINTLOCK SPORTING GUN
SIGNED PIPER, LONDON, CIRCA 1790
With rebrowned two-stage barrel, the breech section octagonal then polygonal and engraved 'London', case-hardened tang engraved with two birds, signed bevelled lock with roller and stepped tail, the inside with much original blued finish, figured walnut half-stock, chequered grip and fore-end, engraved iron mounts including trigger-guard with pineapple finial, horn fore-end cap, and original horn-tipped ramrod (some pitting on barrel and mounts), London proof marks
35 5/8in. (90.5cm.) barrel
SIGNED PIPER, LONDON, CIRCA 1790
With rebrowned two-stage barrel, the breech section octagonal then polygonal and engraved 'London', case-hardened tang engraved with two birds, signed bevelled lock with roller and stepped tail, the inside with much original blued finish, figured walnut half-stock, chequered grip and fore-end, engraved iron mounts including trigger-guard with pineapple finial, horn fore-end cap, and original horn-tipped ramrod (some pitting on barrel and mounts), London proof marks
35 5/8in. (90.5cm.) barrel