Lot Essay
The 'signature' on this pistol is a mystery for there appears to be no record of Arthur Francis, either as a soldier or a gunmaker
Details
A CASED 15-BORE FLINTLOCK OFFICER'S PISTOL
INSCRIBED ARTHUR FRANCIS, CIRCA 1820
With rebrowned twist octagonal sighted barrel, case-hardened recessed patent breech with platinum line, platinum-lined stamp of a crown and the name 'Arthur Francis', platinum-lined touch-hole, scroll engraved tang incorporating the back-sight, engraved case-hardened lock with safety-catch, roller, and rainproof pan, the plate engraved 'Francis 2nd Drag.n G.ds', figured walnut full stock (repaired at the front of the lock), chequered butt, scroll engraved spur trigger-guard with traces of original blued finish, silver escutcheon, and stirrip ramrod (lock and patent breech with some light pitting): in lined and fitted oak case, probably original, with a copper powder-flask, the lid with flush-fitting carrying handle, and illustrated trade label of William Bond, 59 Lombard Street, London for circa 1820-26, Birmingham proof marks
14¾in. (37.5cm.)
INSCRIBED ARTHUR FRANCIS, CIRCA 1820
With rebrowned twist octagonal sighted barrel, case-hardened recessed patent breech with platinum line, platinum-lined stamp of a crown and the name 'Arthur Francis', platinum-lined touch-hole, scroll engraved tang incorporating the back-sight, engraved case-hardened lock with safety-catch, roller, and rainproof pan, the plate engraved 'Francis 2nd Drag.n G.ds', figured walnut full stock (repaired at the front of the lock), chequered butt, scroll engraved spur trigger-guard with traces of original blued finish, silver escutcheon, and stirrip ramrod (lock and patent breech with some light pitting): in lined and fitted oak case, probably original, with a copper powder-flask, the lid with flush-fitting carrying handle, and illustrated trade label of William Bond, 59 Lombard Street, London for circa 1820-26, Birmingham proof marks
14¾in. (37.5cm.)