Product Details
A FINE 32-BORE FLINTLOCK RIFLE WITH GILT AND SILVER DECORATION AND MADE FOR A BOY, SIGNED 'VERSAILLES', no visible serial number,
undoubtedly the work of Boutet, Manuf. de Versailles, early 19th century, with 16in. swamped octagonal multigroove-rifled sighted barrel decorated over its entire length with gilt foliage, classical ornament, lines and stars against a matt blue-black ground, engraved tang and bright flat bevel-edged shaped lock, the latter decorated with a griffin on the tail and signed below the pan 'MANUF. DE VERSAILLES', figured moulded walnut full stock (some minor repairs) with raised cheek-piece, chequered grip and fore-end, cast and polished silver mounts decorated in low relief in the neo-classical Empire style including trigger-guard with urn finials, and ebony ramrod with ivory tip, the whole expertly restored to museum condition, overall length 31in., weight approximately 3lbs.
Estimate £12,000-15,000