Lot 135
135
A RARE PAIR OF FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSSES each with belled brass barrel engraved 'London' at the breech, signed rounded lock, figured walnut full stock with raised apron around the barrel tang, plain brass mounts including scroll side-plate and vacant escutcheon, and original brass-capped ramrods, one retaining its original iron worm, by John Tow, London, London proof marks and barrelsmith's mark of Joseph Griffin, circa 1790

Details
A RARE PAIR OF FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSSES each with belled brass barrel engraved 'London' at the breech, signed rounded lock, figured walnut full stock with raised apron around the barrel tang, plain brass mounts including scroll side-plate and vacant escutcheon, and original brass-capped ramrods, one retaining its original iron worm, by John Tow, London, London proof marks and barrelsmith's mark of Joseph Griffin, circa 1790
32¼in. barrel (2)

Lot Essay

John Tow became a partner with Joseph Griffin in 1771, and, with the latter's failing health took charge of the business in 1783. He also carried on the business conducted with the East India Company. His production of service arms was considerable, but his production for private individuals was small. He died in 1795, and was succeeded in business by Charles Grierson

See W. Keith Neal and D.H.L. Back, Griffin & Tow and W. Bailes, pp.28-29

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