Fine French Flintlock Pistol for the Eastern Market, ca. 1800

Description

Featuring beautifully chiseled and gilt lock depicting stands of arms in relief and signed “H.VIGNIAT/A ST ETIENNE” (Hughes Vigniat, 1747-1819) with decorative border; gold-lined vent and pan; the pan with gilt crescent moon on underside. Tapering round 13 1/4” (33.7 cm) .69 caliber smoothbore barrel with cannon muzzle, the breech and tang with raised foliate decor and crescent moon on the tang; small crowned “M” on the side of the breech. Walnut full stock inlaid with thick silver wire and featuring silver barrel bands, ramrod thimbles, trigger guard, wrist escutcheon, and butt cap with indistinct hallmarks; each with raised foliate design. Silver-tipped steel ramrod. Fine quality and very good complete condition, retaining all its silver wire inlay (one small piece present, but loose); minor pitting on barrel. Overall length 19 3/4” (50 cm).