ARMS, ARMOUR & MILITARIA SALE on 09/12/2009


1.      A JAPANESE KATANA
with curved single-edged blade, plain tang pierced with two holes, pierced iron tsuba, fabric-bound sharkskin-covered grip, with two regulation brass menuki, in its regulation leather-covered wooden saya (worn), together with a note recording its surrender by 2nd Lieutenant Kitazawa to Flying Officer Aitken at Saigon on 11th December 1945
57cm; 22 1/2in blade

Estimate: 200-300
2.      A JAPANESE W.W.II N.C.O's KATANA, NO.144050
with curved regulation blade, steel tsuba, aluminium grip, in its saya
67.5cm; 26 5/8in blade
Estimate: 200-300
3.      A JAPANESE KATANA
with slightly curved single-edged blade retaining some wavy hamon, signed tang pierced with a single hole, in shira saya
68cm; 26 3/4in
Estimate: 300-400
4.      A JAPANESE WAKIZASHI
with slightly curved single-edged blade retaining a wavy hamon (chips), plain tang pierced with two holes, in shira saya
56cm; 22in blade
Estimate: 400-600
5.      A JAPANESE WAKIZASHI
with slightly curved single-edged blade retaining a straight hamon, signed tang pierced with two holes, in shira saya
43.2cm; 17in blade Estimate: 300-400
6.      A JAPANESE YARI
with stout blade of triangular section, cut with a red lacquer-filled fuller on one side, moulded at the base, signed tang, in its saya, and complete with its lacquered cover
19cm; 7 1/2in head

Estimate: 300-400
7.      A JAPANESE FULL ARMOUR, 19TH CENTURY
comprising kabuto with lacquered central panel, fitted with lacquered peak and neck-guard, lacquered mempo, black lacquered cuirass, and a pair of full arm and leg defences formed of lacquered plates and mail on fabric (losses, the lacquer with areas of rust)
Estimate: 1000-1500
8.      THREE PAIRS AND THREE SINGLE JAPANESE STIRRUPS (ABUMI BATTO)
each of characteristic form, rising up to a buckle for suspension, the first pair decorated over the outer surface with silver flowers and signed on the top (losses, patinated); the second pair heavily rusted, retaining traces of silver decoration; the third pair painted with black and gold paint; the first single stirrup decorated over its outer surface with brass foliage and signed at the top; the second decorated with brass and bronze mon over its surface and signed in silver at the top (losses); the third decorated with brass foliage over its surface (heavily pitted)

(9)
Estimate: 200-300
9.      A 28 BORE JAPANESE SNAP MATCHLOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1870
with octagonal swamped sighted barrel formed with a vase-shaped muzzle encrusted with a series of silver ribs, inlaid over the breech in soft metal with an exotic bird and traditional foliage, integral pan (pivot-cover and fence missing, patinated), the breech enclosed by a broad engraved brass band decorated with a stylised warrior mask, brass lock engraved with scrollwork and a flower, sprung serpentine, cherrywood full stock impressed with characters and applied with a long panel of engraved brass enriched with silver plaquettes beneath the fore-end, applied over the spine with a shaped brass plaque engraved with cloud ornament, and brass mounts including trigger-guard and trigger-plate, and silver foliate barrel bolt escutcheons (ramrod missing)
100cm; 39 3/8in barrel
Estimate: 700-900
10.     A 28 BORE JAPANESE SNAP-MATCHLOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1870
with octagonal swamped sighted barrel inlaid with a silver mon at the breech and signed beneath, retained by a broad brass muzzle band and a further band at the breech extending over the tang and engraved with a warrior mask, integral pan with brass pivot-cover and fence, brass lock, sprung moulded brass serpentine, brass trigger, cherrywood full stock (fore-end chipped), and brass mounts including trigger-guard, trigger-plate, and a series of foliate rondels including four pairs of barrel bolt escutcheons (ramrod missing)
101cm; 39 3/4in barrel

The signature beneath the breech reads:

'Koshu ju, Wadaharudayu zo kore ' (Wadaharudayu made this living in Koshu)

Estimate: 600-800
11.     A 32 BORE JAPANESE SNAP-MATCHLOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1870
with octagonal swamped sighted barrel formed with a vase-shaped muzzle encrusted with silver behind, signed beneath the breech and inlaid on top with with foliage and a tiger (losses, areas of pitting), the breech enclosed by a brass band, brass lock, sprung serpentine, cherrywood full stock, applied with engraved silver rosettes, and brass mounts including trigger-guard, silver rosette barrel bolt escutcheons, and later wooden ramrod
102.3cm; 40 1/4in barrel
Estimate: 500-700
12.     AN 11 BORE JAPANESE SNAP-MATCHLOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1870
with heavy tapering barrel retained by a brass breech band (areas of pitting), vase-shaped muzzle incorporating a triangular fore-sight, pierced block-shaped back-sight, inlaid with a silver mon over the breech and signed beneath, integral pan with brass pivot-cover and fence, brass lock, sprung moulded brass serpentine, brass trigger, cherrywood full stock (minor repairs), signed in ink beneath the breech, brass mounts including trigger-plate, and foliate barrel bolt escutcheons, and original ramrod
69.2cm; 27 1/4in barrel

The signature beneath the breech reads:

'Gotei no uchi Kaei boshin natsu' (Kaei year, summer) 'Tamaoki Naohito ...Koshu, Kunitomo...Kiyo..' and on the stock 'Yoshida Saburousukezaemon', perhaps the name of the owner.


Estimate: 600-800
13.     A 48 BORE JAPANESE SNAP-MATCHLOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1870
with slender tapering barrel retained by a brass breech band (worn, painted black), swelling at the muzzle (fore-sight removed), pierced block-shaped back-sight, inlaid in silver with a rabbit over the breech and signed beneath, integral pan with brass pivot-cover and fence, brass lock (serpentine missing), brass trigger, cherrywood full stock, signed in ink beneath the breech (worn) and brass mounts (ramrod and three barrel bolt escutcheons missing)
70cm; 27 1/2in barrel

The signature beneath the breech reads:

'Koshu Kunitomo Kaji Masahide'

Estimate: 300-500
14.     A BURMESE DHA, 20TH CENTURY
with slightly curved single-edged blade decorated with scrolling silver foliage, exotic birds and beasts, white metal hilt of characteristic form, in its scabbard
63cm; 24 3/4in blade
Estimate: 40-60
15.     A CHINESE SWORD, 19TH CENTURY
with straight double-edged blade, brass hilt comprising cross-piece and shaped pommel each engraved with traditional designs, reeded wooden grip, in its wooden scabbard encased with tortoiseshell (small chips and cracks) and fitted with five brass mounts engraved en suite with the hilt
41.2cm; 16 1/4in
Estimate: 120-180
16.     TWELVE PAIRS OF CHINESE AND TIBETAN STIRRUPS
the first pair of bronze with oval treads, slender tapering side panels rising to a loop for suspension, cast and chiselled on each side with a dragon, decorated over much of its surface with polychrome flowers and five clawed dragons against a blue ground in cloisonné; the second of brass decorated over much of its surface with polychrome flowers against a blue ground in cloisonné; and five Chinese and Tibetan pairs of steel stirrups; three pairs of bronze stirrups; another pair and a pair of Chinese horn stirrups

(24)
Estimate: 300-400
17.     A JAVANESE KRIS, LATE 19TH CENTURY
with pattern welded wavy blade, gilt-brass openwork selut decorated with beads, and finely carved beaked ivory pommel (small chips, loose)
37cm; 14 1/2in
Estimate: 100-150
18.     A BHUTANESE SILVER-MOUNTED GARNITURE OF TWO SWORDS AND TWO DAGGERS, 19TH CENTURY
the swords with broad single-edged blades, silver hilts of characteristic form including openwork pommels pierced with geometric designs and scrolls, grips bound with plaited wire, in their original wooden scabbards entirely encased in white metal chased with a pattern of geometric designs and scrollwork on the inner face and foliage on the outer, and one sword with a scaly dragon, all enriched with gilding; the daggers with broad single-edged fullered blades, and hilts and scabbards decorated in a similar manner to the swords, together with two contemporary Bhutanese belts with silver mounts cast and chased with similar ornament
the swords: 68cm; 26 3/4in and 64.7cm; 25 1/2in blades

(6)

For a sword and scabbard with closely related ornament to the present two swords, described variously as a 'Royal sword' and a 'Royal Tibetan sword', see D. J. LaRocca 2006, pp.171-2 cat. no. 73.
Estimate: 1200-1800
19.     AN INDIAN TALWAR WITH DECORATED HILT, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with curved blade double-edged towards the point (areas of light pitting), steel hilt of characteristic form including a pair of short quillons, recurved knuckle-guard and large disc pommel, decorated over its entire surface with gold koftgari flowers within a silver cartouche-shaped framework, in its original wooden scabbard covered with leather tooled with a spiralling pattern of foliage and beadwork, and white metal chape (small losses)
75.5cm; 29 3/4in blade

Estimate: 1000-1500
20.     AN INDIAN TALWAR WITH SILVERED HILT, 19TH CENTURY
with earlier curved European blade stamped with the bladesmith's name (rubbed) within a long fuller on each face and double-edged towards the tip, silver-plated copper hilt of characteristic form, including a pair of langets with shaped terminals, decorated on each side with a rondel filled with a flower formed of seven raised settings filled with opals (three missing), a pair of short quillons, recurved knuckle-guard with monsterhead finial, and large disc-shaped pommel with an up-turned rim, in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard (worn, chape missing)
76cm; 30in blade
Estimate: 1000-1500
21.     AN FINE INDIAN SILVER-HILTED TALWAR, 18TH CENTURY, PROBABLY DELHI
with curved single-edged blade of watered steel, inlaid in gold with a calligraphic cartouche one side (losses), silver hilt comprising a pair of quillons with button-shaped finials, a pair of attenuated langets with pierced finials, recurved knuckle-guard terminating in a monstrous head, large disc-shaped pommel with a pierced loop for suspension, integral grip, and engraved throughout with geometric flowers and foliage within delicate beadwork frames
79.2cm; 31 1/4in blade
Estimate: 2500-3500
22.     AN INDIAN TALWAR, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved blade double-edged towards the point, stamped with a mark at the forte on one side and pierced with a hole, iron hilt of characteristic form, decorated over its full surface with conventional foliage and flowerheads in gold, in a leather-covered wooden scabbard
77cm; 30 3/8in blade
Estimate: 500-600
23.     AN INDIAN TALWAR, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved fullered blade double-edged towards the point, iron hilt of characteristic form, decorated over its surface with an encrusted design of panels filled with scrolling foliage and flowers in gold, and the pommel decorated with a running pattern of foliage and ropework on the respective sides
79.5cm; 31 3/8in blade
Estimate: 400-500
24.     AN INDIAN TALWAR, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved single-edged watered blade, iron hilt of characteristic form, decorated over its surface with an encrusted design of flowers and foliage in silver, highlighted with gold flowers
86.2cm; 34in blade
Estimate: 300-400
25.     AN INDIAN TALWAR, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved blade double-edged towards the point, iron hilt of characteristic form, decorated over its surface with an encrusted symmetrical design of silver scrolls and foliage centring on flowers against a punched ground
87cm; 34 1/4in blade
Estimate: 300-400
26.     A RARE NORTH INDIAN SWORD, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved single-edged blade of watered steel (small patches of very light pitting), steel hilt comprising a pair of short bulbous quillons chiselled with expanded flowerheads on the terminals, recurved knuckle-guard, an additional outer-guard formed of a small basal guard pierced with stylised birds, two bars converging at the top and recurved en suite with the pommel, a pair of attenuated langets, fluted spherical pommel, applied over its full surface with gold koftgari scrolls and foliage on a russet ground, and solid grip decorated en suite, in its velvet-covered wooden scabbard with pierced copper chape
82cm; 32 1/4in blade

A sword with an identical hilt is illustrated L. Southwick 1982, p. 187, no. 531.
Estimate: 3000-5000
27.     THREE INDIAN TALWARS WITH DECORATED HILTS, 19TH CENTURY
each with curved blade, one stamped with a mark at the forte, iron hilts of characteristic form, the first decorated with gold and silver flowers, the second with silver koftgari flowers, and the third chiselled with foliage highlighted in silver (losses), and later scabbards
the first: 77.5cm; 30 1/2in blade

(3) Estimate: 300-400
28.     FIVE INDIAN SWORDS, 18TH/19TH CENTURIES
the first based on the English Infantry pattern of 1822, with etched blade and the hilt including a crossed sword and baton, in its scabbard, the second and third with curved blades double-edged towards the points, and the hilts decorated with foliage and animal head pommels; the fourth South Indian, with broad curved single-edged blade decorated along the back-edge, engraved brass hilt and hardwood grip; and the last probably for a child, with straight blade double-edged toward the point and hilt of talwar form
the first: 81.5cm; 32 1/8in blade

(5)

Estimate: 200-300
29.     AN INDIAN PATA, 17TH CENTURY
with broad double-edged blade, probably of European make, iron gauntlet hilt of characteristic form, incorporating a pair of shaped panels extending over the lower portion of the blade, decorated around the border with beadwork and strongly moulded about the cuff (one side holed, laminations), and retaining its original grip bar and arm support
98.4cm; 38 3/4in blade
Estimate: 450-550
30.     A RARE INDIAN SWORD CANE, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with robust single-edged blade, rectangular forte formed with blunt edges and decorated with differing designs of gold koftgari foliage, flowers and scrolls on the respective faces, steel hilt comprising ferrule formed as a monstrous mask with red stone eyes, a further green stone above and gold koftgari stylised bibri stripes, grip of talwar form, and large hemispherical pommel, decorated throughout with gold koftgari en suite with the forte (small losses), in its original steel-tipped wooden scabbard with painted locket decorated with animals and an exotic bird (losses)
83.2cm; 32 3/4in blade
Estimate: 1500-2000
31.     A SOUTH INDIAN SWORD (PATISSA), 17TH CENTURY
with double-edged blade swelling to a rounded tip, engraved steel hilt formed with a pair of engraved attenuated langets extending over the lower portion of the blade on each side, figure-of-eight shaped dish-guard up-turned on each side, up-turned cup-shaped pommel and solid grip (the engraving refreshed)
84cm; 33in


Estimate: 500-600
32.     TWO INDIAN KHANDA, 17TH/18TH CENTURY
the first with broad blade double-edged towards the tip, cut with a brief inscription on one side, steel hilt of characteristic form extending over the forte, attenuated pommel, and retaining a portion of an early grip liner; the second with broad blade of watered steel, the lower portion enclosed by a shaped plaque with sides of unequal length extending over the edges, steel hilt of talwar form decorated over its surface with silver koftgari flowers and foliage (worn)
83.5cm; 32 7/8in blade

(2)

Estimate: 500-600
33.     AN INDIAN SHAMSHIR FOR A CHILD, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with curved single-edged blade retaining traces of watered pattern, copper hilt including a pair of langets, short quillons, knuckle-guard with recurved bud-shaped finial, faceted grip, the pommel fitted with a hinged loop for suspension, and retaining much original gilding, in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard (losses)
51.5cm; 20 1/4in blade


Estimate: 300-400
34.     TWO SOUTH INDIAN SWORDS, PATISSA, LATE 16TH/17TH CENTURIES
each with blunt blade swelling to a broad tip, iron hilt of characteristic form extending over the lower portion of the blade, disc-shaped guard of v-section, integral grip, and cup-shaped pommel (rust patinated throughout)
74.5cm; 29 3/8in and 67cm; 26 1/4in blades

(2)

The blunt edges are unusual and would suggest that these might have been intended for practice use.

Estimate: 200-300
35.     AN INDIAN JADE-HILTED DAGGER, LATE 19TH/20TH CENTURY
with double-edged blade swelling towards the point, formed with a central rib and a pair of tapering fullers on each face, the forte enclosed by a shaped sleeve decorated with gold koftgari scrollwork on each side, finely carved hilt of figured jade, carved with lotus flowers and foliage at the base, the pommel formed as a bridled horse, the eyes set with colourless stones, and the mane extending over the spine
38cm; 15in
Estimate: 3000-5000
36.     AN INDIAN CARVED ROCK CRYSTAL DAGGER HILT, 18TH CENTURY
of strongly curved rounded form, carved with a band of foliage centring on an expanded flowerhead on each side at the base, and rising to a pommel formed as a bird-of-prey's head each enriched with gold, and decorated throughout with gilt flowers (areas of wear)
16.5cm; 6 1/2in



Estimate: 2000-3000
37.     TWO SOUTH INDIAN DAGGERS, CHILANUM, 16TH/17TH CENTURY, PROBABLY DECCAN
the first formed entirely of steel (rust patinated), with recurved fullered blade, steel hilt formed with a pair of shaped panels enclosing the lower portion of the blade, a pair of curling horns forming the pommel, and the grip interrupted by a spherical moulding; and the second recurved blade cut with a pair of short tapering fullers divided by a medial ridge on each side, carved wooden hilt (cracked) fitted with a brass ferrule at the base, flattened elliptical pommel, and the grip interrupted by a central moulding
the first: 30cm; 11 3/4in

(2)

For a discussion of this group and their dating see R. Elgood 2004, pp. 163-179.
Estimate: 300-400
38.     THREE SOUTH INDIAN DAGGERS 17TH/EARLY 18TH CENTURY

the first with recurved fullered blade, iron hilt of chilanum form, including grip with central moulding, the second with recurved blade formed with a medial ridge, iron hilt comprising oval cross-guard with beaded border, and bird's head pommel, and the third similar to the second, with hilt of more plain form (rusted throughout)

36.8cm; 14 1/2in blade
Estimate: 400-500
39.     AN INDIAN KATAR, 18TH CENTURY AND AN INDIAN FOLDING KATAR
the first with reinforced blade, chiselled and gilt with a leaping tiger confronted by an elephant within a broad fuller on each face (the gold with losses), steel hilt of characteristic form decorated on the inner and outer faces of the side bars with a running pattern of scrolling foliage and flowers within linear frames, and the grip-bars highlighted with lines of gold; the second of characteristic form, the blade covers decorated with a panel of silver foliage, in a fabric-covered wooden scabbard
the first: 45cm; 17 3/4in

(2) Estimate: 450-550
40.     A SOUTH INDIAN KATAR, 18TH CENTURY
with separate blade cut with a slender central fuller on each face, steel hilt including a pair of shaped panels extending over the forte, broad tapering side bars, and a pair of moulded grip bars, chiselled over its full surface with a pattern of flowers and foliage (worn), in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard with a silver chape embossed with foliage (light wear)
41cm; 16 1/8in
Estimate: 300-400
41.     TWO INDIAN DAGGERS, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
the first with recurved fullered blade reinforced at the tip, steel hilt including oval guard drawn-out to a pair of short moulded quillons, ivory grip of khanjarli form retained by five rivets on each side, the second with curved fullered blade reinforced at the tip, iron hilt, and a pair of shaped ivory grip-scales (one chipped, age cracks)
the first: 37cm; 14 5/8in

(2)
Estimate: 300-400
42.     TWO INDIAN DAGGERS, 19TH AND 20TH CENTURIES
the first comprising two recurved fullered blades swelling towards the tip, central grip incorporating a pair of bone grip-scales, and fitted with a knuckle-bow with an additional short blade, the second with reinforced single-edged blade brass hilt, and stone grip-scales
the first: 52.5cm; 20 3/4in

(2)
Estimate: 250-400
43.     THREE INDIAN DAGGERS, BICHWA, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
with characteristic recurved double-edged blades, one with brass moulded hilt with pierced border and bud-shaped finial, in its scabbard; the second with steel hilt with moulded border; and the third with brass hilt involving stylised monsterheads
the first: 34cm; 13 1/2in

(3)
Estimate: 250-350
44.     AN INDIAN DAGGER, LATE 19TH CENTURY
with broad serrated double-edged blade cut with a pair of long fullers on each side, swelling at the forte and decorated with gold koftgari foliage and a calligraphic cartouche on each side, iron hilt including a pair of down-curved bud-shaped quillons, double-beaked pommel, and decorated over its surface with leafy ornament en suite with the forte, in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard
55.3cm; 21 3/4in

Estimate: 400-600
45.     AN INDIAN AXE, 19TH CENTURY, POSSIBLY SIND
with crescentic axe blade, the lower portion encased in gilt-brass decorated with repoussé with scrolling foliage and flowers, flat rear pean decorated with an elephant and a mounted warrior on either side, gilt brass haft decorated en suite with the base of the head, and retaining its chiselled basal cap incorporating a concealed dagger
52cm; 20 1/2in
Estimate: 1500-2000
46.     AN INDIAN MACE, 17TH CENTURY
of russet iron, with two-stage head formed of eight wedge-shaped flanges (two detached), tapering fluted haft, and hilt of khanda form including curved attenuated pommel with bud finial
85.7cm; 33 5/8in
Estimate: 300-400
47.     AN INDIAN SHORT SPEAR, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with tapering single-edged blade-like head of watered steel, figured hardwood haft with moulded terminal, and fabric-covered wooden scabbard
24.5cm; 9 3/4in head
Estimate: 150-250
48.     A GROUP OF TWELVE INDIAN ANKUS, 17TH AND 18TH CENTURIES
of characteristic form, one with pierced body filled with bells, eight with wooden hafts, and the remainder formed entirely of steel (rusted)
48.8cm; 19 1/4in to 79cm; 31in

(12)
Estimate: 400-600
49.     FIVE INDIAN AXES, 17TH-19TH CENTURIES
the first formed entirely of steel with crescentic head, central spike, brass elephant-shaped rear pean, and steel haft; the second with crescentic head, rear pean formed as a pair of lustrating elephants, on its wooden haft, and three with robust wedge-shaped heads, rear peans, and wooden hafts
the first: 56cm; 22in

(5)
Estimate: 300-400
50.     FOUR INDIAN FAKIR'S CRUTCHES, 17TH AND 18TH CENTURIES
each formed entirely of steel, with concealed blades, two with recurved finials and two with crescentic finials, and each with bud-shaped terminals (rusted)
54.5cm; 21 1/2in and 59cm; 23 1/4in

(4)
Estimate: 200-300
51.     AN INDIAN SPEAR, 18TH CENTURY
with slender tapering head formed with a reinforced tip, decorated at the base with an applied panel of engraved and punched silver decorated with flowers, tapering moulded silvered socket engraved with lozenges filled with flowers and scrolls, on its original two-piece wooden haft with large chased gilt-brass mounts, and retaining a long moulded steel basal cap, applied with engraved silver en suite with the head
35.5cm; 14in head

Provenance

Robin Wigington
Estimate: 700-900
52.     TWO INDIAN CEREMONIAL CHOBAS AND AN AFRICAN SHIELD
the chobas of tapering tubular form, interrupted by spirally fluted moulded collars, iron basal cap, the top portions decorated with bold fluting and cut with a brief inscription beneath; the shield of hide, and fitted with a wooden staff at the back
the first: 125.8cm; 49 1/2in

(3)
Estimate: 200-300
53.     A VERY FINE AND RARE TURKISH GOLD, ENAMELLED AND GEM-SET DAGGER WITH LAPIS LAZULI HILT, EARLY 18TH CENTURY
with tapering single-edged blade of watered steel, decorated on one side with a gold-encrusted scroll and a spray of tulip flowers, gold ferrule (incomplete), faceted hilt of gold-flecked lapis lazuli (one small chip at the base), rising to a beaked pommel set with a ruby in a raised floral gold setting, in its original gold scabbard, the inner face enamelled in polychrome with a vertical arrangement of conventional flowers with sprays of foliage highlighted with green enamelled leaves (the enamel with small losses), all against a finely punched matted ground, the outer face decorated with a large panel top and bottom filled with floral patterns formed of raised gold settings and twenty four and twenty six rubies respectively, all enriched with black and white enamel and each with a single diamond, the middle portion with a further flower formed of six diamonds centring on a ruby surrounded by enamelled polychrome flowers and foliage against a finely punched ground en suite with the inner face, the chape set with a single emerald, the back-edge of the scabbard with a running pattern of enamelled green foliage (losses), the inner face with characteristic locket and retaining its original plaited silver wire suspension cord with fluted bulbous finial
17.5cm; 6 7/8in

The floral mount for the pommel stone and the outer face of the scabbard are closely related to another gold, enamelled and gem-set dagger of earlier form, taken as part of the booty gathered by the Margraves of Baden-Baden and Baden-Durlach now preserved in the Badisches Landesmuseum, Karlsruhe. See E. Petrasch, R. Sänger, E. Zimmermann and H. G. Majer 1991, p. 197, no. 143.

Lapis Lazuli is most commonly found in the valley of Kokcha, a tributary of the Oxus, south of Firgamu in Afghanistan. It was visited by Marco Polo in 1271 and has been prized both before and since that date for its rich blue colour characteristically flecked with gold specks of pyrite.
Estimate: 25000-35000
54.     A PERSIAN KARD, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with tapering blade sparsely decorated with gold koftgari flowers at the forte, steel hilt decorated en suite with the forte (the gold extensively worn), and morse grip-scales, in its fishskin-covered wooden scabbard reinforced along the back-edge with a silver strip (losses) and with copper chape
33cm; 13in
Estimate: 500-800
55.     A PERSIAN KARD, 19TH CENTURY
with tapering blade of wedge-shaped section retaining much finely watered ladder pattern, decorated with a panel of gold koftgari scrollwork, flowers and foliage, and over the lower portion of the back-edged (areas of wear, small losses), and associated polished bone grip (small cracks)
32.4cm; 12 3/4in
Estimate: 1000-1500
56.     A PERSIAN KARD, 19TH CENTURY AND TWO ARAB DAGGERS
with tapering blade of watered steel, decorated with gold koftgari around the ferrule and over the back-strap, and a pair of polished bone grip-scales; the second and third 20th century, with curved double-edged blades, white metal hilts and scabbards set with coloured pastes
26.7cm; 10 1/2in

(3)

Estimate: 300-400
57.     A RARE OTTOMAN TURKISH SWORD, KILIG, LATE 17TH/EARLY 18TH CENTURY
with broad curved blade formed with a reinforced edge and double-edged towards the point, etched with masonic symbols on each side and a presentation on the back-edge (areas of pitting), brass hilt comprising cross-piece with down-turned quillons formed as a tulip profile, engraved silver back-strap decorated with tulip flowers and foliage (one small chip, rubbed), strongly formed hardwood grip shaped for the fingers, carved with pairs of chevrons and with tulip flowerheads around the pommel, studded with silver flowerhead rivets (one missing) and enriched with brass nails (small losses), in its original leather-covered wooden scabbard (scabbard split along the seam on one side) with large brass mounts comprising chape, locket, middle band and with three rings for suspension
74.5cm; 29 3/8in blade

The presentation inscription reads: 'Presented by brother Betts to the Enoch Lodge, no 11, Febry 1838'

Henry Betts was born around 1806 and lived at 17 Marylebone Street. He is recorded working as a Cupper. He joined Enoch Lodge in 1837, became Master 1840 and died circa 1870. Estimate: 3000-5000
58.     TWO INDO-PERSIAN JAMBIYAS AND AN INDO PERSIAN SPEAR HEAD, 19TH CENTURY
the first with curved double-edged blade, decorated with silver koftgari at the forte, steel hilt decorated with silver en suite with the forte, in its matching scabbard; the second with curved blade divided laterally to form five layered points, etched forte, etched steel grip, in its scabbard decorated en suite, the third with broad flat tapering spear head and moulded tubular socket, decorated over the greater part of its surface with scrollwork and celestial motifs in brass
the first: 41cm; 16 1/8in

(3)
Estimate: 250-350
59.     AN INDO-PERSIAN MACE, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
with spherical head retaining some silver koftgari, fitted with numerous spikes and a central spike, and steel haft incorporating two spherical mouldings at each end of the grip
79.2cm; 31 1/4in
Estimate: 300-400
60.     AN INDO-PERSIAN SPEARHEAD AND AXE, 19TH CENTURY
the first formed of two wavy blades, moulded base, and tubular socket, etched over its surface with calligraphic designs (worn); the second with etched double crescentic head, central spike and tubular haft
the first: 42cm; 16 1/2in head

(2)
Estimate: 80-100
61.     TWO MOROCCAN JAMBIYAS, 20TH CENTURY
each with curved blade double-edged towards the point, wooden hilt of characteristic form with engraved white metal mounts, in its scabbard with a pair of rings for suspension
37cm; 14 1/2in and 37.5cm; 14 3/4in

(2)

Estimate: 40-60
62.     A TURKISH YATAGHAN, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved single-edged blade cut with a stylised inscription along the back-edge on one side, gilt-brass hilt extending over the lower portion of the blade, decorated with filigree and set with green stones and coral, and a pair of ivory grip-scales rising to a strongly formed eared pommel, in its original brass-mounted leather-covered wooden scabbard
58.5cm; 23in blade
Estimate: 700-1000
63.     A TURKISH YATAGHAN AND AN ENAMELLED ARAB DAGGER, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
the first with slightly curved single-edged blade, brass hilt and a pair of slender horn grip-scales rising to an eared pommel; the second with curved double-edged blade decorated with gold koftagri at the forte, and enamelled copper grip and scabbard decorated with stylised flowers on a polychrome ground (worn)
the first: 66cm; 26in blade

(2)

Estimate: 150-250
64.     A PERSIAN SHAMSHIR, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with curved watered steel blade of rose and ladder pattern, decorated on one side with a gold koftgari calligraphic cartouche, the forte chiselled with a shaped panel on each side, copper-gilt hilt of pistol form (cracked), chiselled over its surface with flowers and foliage against a finely punched and gilt ground
60cm; 23 5/8in blade
Estimate: 600-800
65.     A FINE SILVER-MOUNTED OTTOMAN GREEK SHAMSHIR PRESENTED BY THE PACHA OF CANDIA TO CAPTAIN F.T.MICHELL R.N., DATED 1829
with curved blade double-edged towards the point and cut with two slender fullers of differing length along the back-edge, silver hilt comprising a pair of quillons with bud-shaped finials, engraved with scrolls and a bouquet of fruit, moulded back-strap engraved with the presentation inscription and date, and a pair of horn grip-scales fitted with a tear-shaped washer on each side of the pommel, in its original leather-covered wooden scabbard with large silver mounts cast and chased in relief, comprising locket, middle-band and chape each decorated with sprays of flowers, foliage, trophies and bouquets all within an elaborate series of scrollwork frames, and retaining a ring for suspension (one suspension ring missing)
75.5cm; 29 3/4in blade


Admiral Sir Frederick Thomas Michell KCB (1788-1873) was the son of Lieutenant Sampson Michell RN, a Cornishman who died an admiral in the Portuguese Navy in 1809. He was born in Exeter, entered the Royal Naval Academy at Portsmouth in 1800 and joined HMS EURYDICE (24) as a Midshipman in 1803, serving in a number of ships and locations before being commissioned lieutenant on 29th May 1807. Serving in several more ships in locations from the Adriatic to Brazil, he became 1st lieutenant of HMS BOYNE (98) in March 1815. When Admiral Lord Exmouth was appointed to command a punitive expedition to Algiers in 1816, he took BOYNE's officers with him into his flagship, HMS QUEEN CHARLOTTE (100). Before the bombardment of Algiers, late in August 1816, Exmouth appointed Michell to command the battering flotilla of 55 small vessels - principally gun, mortar, rocket and bomb ships - in the acting rank of commander and Michell was confirmed in that rank on 16th September 1816. After a decade on half-pay, Michell was appointed to command HMS RIFLEMAN (18) on 27th December 1826 and took her to the Mediterranean.

During the 1820s Greece fought her war of independence from Turkey: Britain, France and Russia were involved to maintain the balance of power and their own interests in the eastern Mediterranean. At the time, Crete was known by its Venetian name Candia and the Sultan ruled the island though a governor, or Pasha; the island's capital, now Heraklion, was also known as Candia. It was British policy to recognise Crete as Turkish and British ships were welcomed in its harbours by the island's governor.

The Ship's Logs of HMS RIFLEMAN for 1829 (The National Archives; ADM 51/3377 and ADM 53/1140) show that she left Malta, bound for Crete, on 2nd March 1829, taking as passengers two Turks, Mustapha Hassan and Mustapha Ali. On 7th March, she anchored in Port Greco, a harbour on the island of Stondia - now Dia Nisida - off the north coast of Crete opposite the city of Candia. On 8th March, she sailed across the strait to Candia, put the captain, Michell, and the surgeon ashore in a yawl, 'stood off and on' until the yawl returned and then, having fired a salute of 19 guns - which was returned by the harbour's Turkish fort - sailed back to Port Greco, leaving Michell - and, presumably, the surgeon and the ship's two Turkish passengers - in Candia. On 9th March, she returned and sent the yawl for Captain Michell, who returned at 11.30am, whereupon she left Candia harbour, returning a salute of 21 guns from the fort, and made sail for Malta, arriving there on 16th March 1829. For the remainder of 1829, HMS RIFLEMAN cruised in the Mediterranean but did not return to Crete.

It seems most likely that Michell received the sword offered here in March 1829 as a gesture of thanks from the island's governor, perhaps for conveying the two Turks from Malta. The Turkish governor of Candia 1832-51 was the Albanian Giritli Mustafa Naili Pasha (b. 1798) who, in 1829, would have been known as plain Mustafa Naili and so may have been the 'Mustapha Ali' taken aboard Michell's ship on the orders of C.-in-C. Mediterranean for passage to Crete; he had been active in suppressing Greek insurrections on Crete in the 1820s and passage on a British sloop-of-war was probably the most sure way of returning him safely to the island.

Michell was promoted post captain on 22nd February 1830, commanded the 5th Rate HMS MAGICIENNE (24) at the siege and bombardment of Acre in 1840 and then the 5th Rate HMS INCONSTANT until 1843. In 1852 he was given command of HMS QUEEN (110) and commanded her during the Crimean War, particularly distinguishing himself at the bombardment of Sebastopol 1854-55, after which he was promoted rear admiral and created CB. Michell returned home to live in Totnes, Devon, where he was elected mayor in 1855 and 1858 and where he died. He became a vice-admiral in 1862 and an admiral in 1866, being created KCB in 1867. In addition to the sword given him by the Pasha of Candia/Crete, he received another from the Sultan, as well as a cloak with diamond clasps and several Turkish orders and decorations; as well as the insignia of a KCB, he received that of an Officer of the Legion of Honour, the Naval General Service Medal 1793-1814, with clasps Algiers and Syria and the British and Turkish medals for the Crimean War.


Estimate: 1500-2500
66.     A RARE BALKAN JAMBIYA, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with curved double-edged blade formed with a medial ridge, decorated with a panel of gold scrollwork and pellets over the forte, wooden hilt covered with green velvet finely embroidered in silver thread with foliage and set with seed pearl flowers on each side, the pommel decorated with a matching flowerhead, in its original wooden scabbard covered with green velvet embroidered in silver thread with sprays of conventional foliage in silver thread bound with brocade and enriched with seed pearls (areas of wear and minor losses)
53.5cm; 21in

Estimate: 700-900
67.     A CAUCASIAN SILVER MOUNTED KINDJAL, LATE 19TH/20TH CENTURY
with broad blade cut with three slender fullers and stamped with a mark, hilt of characteristic form encased in silver repoussé with foliage enriched with niello all within beadwork frames, in its wooden scabbard encased in silver en suite with the hilt, the locket complete with a single loop for suspension
48.2cm; 19in
Estimate: 600-800
68.     A CAUCASIAN SILVER MOUNTED KINDJAL, LATE 19TH/20TH CENTURY
with broad blade cut with a pair of slender fullers and with a blued decorative panel at the forte, hilt of characteristic form encased in gilt-silver repoussé with foliage enriched with niello on the front and niello foliage on the reverse, in its wooden scabbard encased in silver en suite with the hilt, including a brief niello inscription on the reverse and and the locket with a single loop for suspension
46.3cm; 18 1/4in
Estimate: 600-800
69.     A CAUCASIAN SILVER-MOUNTED KINDJAL, DATED 1903
with broad fullered blade stamped with a mark at the forte on one side, hilt of characteristic form encased in gilt-silver beadwork frames filled with foliage enriched with niello, the reverse decorated with niello flowers, in its wooden scabbard encased in silver en suite with the hilt, decorated in niello on the reverse with the date in both Arabic and cyrillic numerals, a star and crescent, and with a single loop for suspension
50cm;19 3/4in
Estimate: 600-800
70.     A GEORGIAN KINDJAL, DATED 1765
with broad blade cut with a pair of long central fullers framed by a pair of grooves, retaining some watered pattern and with traces of gold koftgari (worn), one side etched with the inscription 'Kapt. CTP HA ßÈқš 1765', ivory hilt of characteristic form, engraved with the date on the reverse, fitted with a pair of engraved silver flowerhead washers at the front, the lower set with a green paste (the other missing), in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard with engraved silver mounts, the locket with an iron suspension band retaining traces of gold koftgari (worn)
41.5cm; 16 3/8in


Estimate: 500-700
71.     A GEORGIAN SILVER-MOUNTED KINDJAL, 19TH CENTURY
with broad tapering fullered blade decorated with a panel of gold koftgari scrollwork and flowers at the forte on one side (areas of wear and pitting), marine ivory grip (age cracks) retained by two rivets on nielloed silver washers each set with a turquoise, in its wooden scabbard covered with green fabric (worn), with shaped silver locket and chape each decorated with nielloed flowers on a hatched ground, the locket set with green and turquoise pastes, stamped with silver marks on the reverse, and with a single ring for suspension
42.5cm; 16 3/4in
Estimate: 400-600
72.     A CAUCASIAN KINDJAL, 20TH CENTURY
with broad double-edged fullered blade decorated with gold and silver koftgari silver foliage, steel hilt of characteristic form decorated en suite, in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard with steel mounts matching the hilt (decoration worn)
38.7cm; 15 1/4in

Estimate: 300-400
73.     A CAUCASIAN KINDJAL, LATE 19TH CENTURY
with broad fullered blade stamped with a mark on one side and cut with a further mark on the other, wooden hilt of characteristic form faced with gilt brass embossed with scrolls and foliage against a punched ground, in its original fabric-covered wooden scabbard with gilt-brass mounts (suspension loop missing)
55.5cm; 21 7/8in

Estimate: 250-350
74.     A GREEK BICHAQ, 19TH CENTURY
with single-edged blade, white metal hilt comprising ferrule and back-strap each engraved with foliage (the pommel paste missing), and a pair of ivory grip-scales (small chips and age cracks), in its leather-covered wooden scabbard
29.5cm; 11 5/8in
Estimate: 150-250
75.     AN OTTOMAN BREAST-PLATE (KRUG) EARLY 16TH CENTURY
comprising circular plate embossed with a series of very narrow ribs radiating from a flat central boss plain rim struck with the mark of the Ottoman Court Arsenal at Hagia Eirene retaining five outer plates for protecting the lower neck and arm openings each joined to the main plate by riveted mail links (chemically cleaned, two plates and some mail restored)
26.5cm; 10 1/2in main plate diameter

Estimate: 800-1200
76.     A PAIR OF INDIAN BAZU BANDS AND TWO DECORATED BAZU BAND PLATES, 19TH CENTURY
the first formed of a gutter-shaped main-plate reinforced with a pierced cusped panel around the edge, flanged outwards at the base, fitted with hinged wrist-plate formed en suite and retaining an early padded silk lining, the second and third comprising two main plates of tapering gutter-shape, the outer faces etched with calligraphic panels, figures in traditional dress, and scrolling foliage
the first: 29cm; 11 1/2in and 30cm; 11 7/8in

(4)
Estimate: 400-500
77.     AN INDIAN CHA AINA, 18TH CENTURY
comprising four plates of watered steel (areas of rust and patination), each etched with calligraphic panels, cartouches, exotic birds, beasts and foliage, fitted with buckles for attaching straps (incomplete), the border with plain turned brass brim, and two retaining a portion of their lining
31.8cm; 12 1/2in high

(4)


Estimate: 1200-1800
78.     AN INDO-PERSIAN KULAH-KHUD, 19TH CENTURY
with hemispherical skull, fitted with central spike, a pair of plume-holders, adjustable sliding nasal-bar and mail neck-defence (minor repairs), the skull decorated over its outer surface with mounted hunters and warriors in traditional costume enriched with gold and silver koftgari (areas of wear, painted black overall, worn)
27.5cm; 10 7/8in high

Estimate: 600-800
79.     EIGHT INDIAN HORSE BITS
the first of brass with spiked mouthpiece; four with U-shaped mouthpiece and filed scrolling side bars and three with two-part mouthpieces and a pair of rings at each end

(8)
Estimate: 300-400
80.     A GROUP OF INDIAN AND MIDDLE EASTERN STIRRUPS
comprising a pair of Persian stirrups, first millennium BC, with curved tread, moulded side bars rising to a pierced loop decorated with monster heads for suspension; a pair of Afghan stirrups,19th Century, with pierced treads, chiselled with foliage over the side panels; a pair of Indian stirrups, 18th Century, previously fitted with bells beneath, decorated with a spiral pattern on the underside; a single Indian stirrup, the base fitted with three pierced dome-like projections with bells; four further pairs of brass stirrups and three single stirrups

(18)
Estimate: 100-150
81.     TWELVE INDIAN ARROWS, A POWDER-FLASK AND A CERAMIC GRENADE, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
the arrows with bamboo hafts and bone nocks (some incomplete), two with sharpened tips and the remainder flat-tipped; the powder-flask of horn-shaped form, fitted with spring cut-off and a loop for suspension; and the grenade probably Turkish, with conical base and short nozzle, impressed over its surface with rudimentary decoration
the first, approximately 66cm; 26in

(14)
Estimate: 150-250
82.     AN OTTOMAN BALKAN CARTRIDGE BOX, 18TH/19TH CENTURY
of characteristic form, the outer face decorated with punched ornament centring on an applied star set with a turquoise, hinged lid, and fitted with a loop for suspension at the rear
11.8cm; 4 5/8in high
Estimate: 150-250
83.     A RARE SOLOMON ISLANDS FIGHTING AXE
with European trade wedge-shaped iron head stamped with a mark on one side, figured hardwood haft carved with raised mouldings at the top and a shaped finial, and with much early patina
98.5cm; 38 3/4in
Estimate: 800-1000
84.     THREE AUSTRALIAN SPEAR THROWERS (WOOMEROS) AND A CLUB
comprising two long Woomeros each with black gum tip and traces of early binding; another, Woomero, probably West Australian, of paddle-head form, with gum tip and traces of a collection label; and a club, probably West Australian, of paddle-head form, carved with a low cross on each side, and crescentic base
117cm; 46in

(4)
Estimate: 400-600
85.     A GROUP OF FOUR AUSTRALIAN CLUBS
comprising a New Britain club with near spherical stone head, the haft retaining a small bound collar; a New Hebrides staff, with a carved disc-shaped moulding at each end and in the centre, retaining an early binding and with an old collection label; a Soloman Islands paddle club, of characteristic form, and another club, probably Soloman Islands, with traces of an old collection label
the first: 123.8cm; 48 3/4in

(4)
Estimate: 500-700
86.     THREE JADITE ARCHERS RINGS, PROBABLY CHINESE 19TH CENTURY
of cylindrical form, of translucent dark green, light green and white figured stone, and remaining in good condition

(3)
Estimate: 90-110
87.     NINE PAIRS OF PERUVIAN BRASS STIRRUPS, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
each of characteristic form, some cast with shell ornament, the majority retaining their loops for suspension

(18)
Estimate: 200-300
88.     FOUR PAIRS OF PERUVIAN BRASS AND WHITE METAL STIRRUPS, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
each of characteristic form, the first cast with shell ornament (patinated); the second of white metal engraved over the forward portion; the third of brass engraved with pairs of lines; and the fourth similar

(8)
Estimate: 100-150
89.     SEVEN PAIRS OF MOROCCAN STIRRUPS, 19TH CENTURY
of characteristic form, two pairs decorated with brass inlay enriched with white metal studs, one pair inlaid with silver wire and one pair chiselled with scrolls
Estimate: 300-500
90.     SEVEN PAIRS OF MEXICAN ROWEL SPURS AND A SINGLE MEXICAN ROWEL SPUR
comprising two pairs with U-shaped heel bands, pierced slotted terminals for attaching straps, pierced filed neck extending to a pair of long pierced rectangular panels, fitted with very large multi-spiked rowels, decorated over much of their surface with German silver; two further pairs of white metal; three smaller pairs and a single spur decorated with a silver inlaid trellis pattern

(15)
Estimate: 300-400
91.     SEVEN PAIRS OF MEXICAN ROWEL SPURS
comprising three pairs with U-shaped heel bands with pierced slotted terminals, moulded necks extending to a pair of long pierced rectangular panels and large multi-spiked rowels, each decorated with German silver; two further pairs of white metal and two pairs of plain steel spurs

(14)
Estimate: 300-400
92.     VARIOUS SOUTH AMERICAN STIRRUPS
comprising a pair of Peruvian wooden stirrups of near pyramidal form, the outer surface embossed with an eagle displayed, flowers and foliage; three pairs of Chilean wooden stirrups; a pair of wooden clog stirrups, the frontal portion encased with sheet brass applied with the crowned arms of Portugal; fifteen pairs of Brazilian stirrups and a single silver shoe-shaped stirrup

(41)
Estimate: 200-300
93.     A 20 BORE MOROCCAN SNAPHAUNCE GUN, 19TH CENTURY
with tapering sighted barrel retained by eight broad and one narrow engraved brass bands, decorated with silver and engraved scrollwork over the breech and fitted with standing back-sight, engraved breech tang, characteristic lock inlaid with engraved white metal panels, three-quarter stock inlaid with silver wire scrollwork including a brief inscription ahead of the lock, the butt decorated with scrolling flowers and foliage, large ivory butt-cap engraved with rondels, brass trigger-guard and original steel ramrod
146.7cm; 57 3/4in barrel
Estimate: 300-400
94.     A 25 BORE MOROCCAN SNAPHAUNCE GUN, CIRCA 1880
with three-stage sighted barrel decorated with silver scrollwork over the breech and behind the muzzle, retained by four engraved white metal bands, the breech tang decorated en suite and incorporating the back-sight, characteristic lock inlaid with engraved white metal panels, three-quarter stock inlaid with silver wire scrollwork including a brief inscription opposite the lock, the butt decorated with scrolling flowers and foliage, large ivory butt-cap inlaid with rondels, iron trigger-guard retaining some gilding and original steel ramrod
113.5cm; 44 3/4in barrel

Estimate: 300-400
95.     AN 18 BORE ALBANIAN MIQUELET-LOCK CARBINE, DATED 1115 AH (CIRCA 1703-04)
with tapering sighted barrel stamped 'Mafeo Francin' over the breech, steel lock of characteristic form, engraved with a brief inscription beneath the steel spring, wooden three-quarter stock, encased over the greater part of its surface with metal, the fore-end and the butt covered with brass engraved with large flowerheads and cut with an inscription behind the lock, and ivory butt incorporating a series of contrasting horn fillets, writhen steel saddle bar and a ring for a sling (the forward ring and trigger-guard missing) (worn, the ivory with age cracks), and original steel ramrod
78.5cm; 30 7/8in barrel

The inscriptions read, in translation, 'Work of 'Uthman', 'Work of Ausat 'Umar... Its owner and possessor 'Uthman Agha'.

Estimate: 250-350
96.     A 14 BORE BALKAN SILVER-MOUNTED MIQUELET-LOCK GUN CAPTURED AT ROSETTA BY CAPTAIN ROBERT SAUNDERS AND PRESENTED TO LORD FREDERICK BENTINCK, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with tapering barrel retained by five silver bands repoussé with foliage, chiselled with foliage over the breech and encrusted with a shaped silver panel engraved with an inscription within a beadwork frame, the breech and tang overlaid with engraved silver and incorporating a standing back-sight, iron lock of characteristic form overlaid with engraved silver plaques, wooden full stock encased in silver over almost its entire surface, repoussé with foliage en suite with the barrel bands and a panel of raised diamonds within a frame of trellis ropework, faceted butt applied with fabric (worn) and repoussé silver plaques (one loose), the rear portion enclosed by a large matching butt cap, silver ball trigger, a pair of silver sling swivels, early fabric sling, and original steel ramrod
105cm; 41in barrel


The inscription on the breech reads:

'This firelock was taken from a Turkish Officer of rank in a skirmish before the town of Rosetta in Egypt by Capt Robt Saunders then of H. Majesty's late 20 L Dns and presented by him to M. G. Lord Fred Bentinck'.

This gun was probably acquired by Robert Saunders as a spoil of battle during the British expedition to Egypt in 1807. The purpose of that expedition was to restore British influence to an area of the eastern Mediterranean which was threatened by French occupation and a British mixed force of around 6,000 men was dispatched from Sicily on 6th March 1807, capturing Alexandria on 20th March. Having captured Alexandria, the next target was the grain reserves at Rosetta and a small column marched there at the end of March. That operation was unsuccessful and so a larger column, of about 2,500 men including the 20th Light Dragoons detachment, was sent to Rosetta on 3rd April and had encamped outside the town by 7th April. For the next fortnight the British were engaged in a series of actions, running fights and skirmishes around Rosetta, were under almost constant attack by Turkish and Albanian forces and failed to bring Rosetta under British control. It would have been during this period in April 1807 that the gun offered here was acquired by Robert Saunders.

Robert Saunders was a sergeant in 20th Light Dragoons in January 1804; he was promoted regimental sergeant major in about June 1804 and appointed troop quartermaster en route to the Mediterranean in about March 1805. On 25th July 1809 he was commissioned cornet, without purchase, and was appointed adjutant on 14th December 1809: he remained adjutant until 26th June 1816. On 20th August 1811, Saunders was promoted lieutenant, again without purchase, and he remained in that rank in the 20th until 24th September 1818, when he exchanged to the half-pay of 66th Regiment of Foot: he remained on half-pay until his death in 1834. Saunders served with his regiment in eastern Spain from January 1813 to April 1814 and was present at the Catalonian battles of Castalla (12th-13th April 1813) and Ordal (13th September 1813). From the rapidity of his promotion through the non-commissioned ranks, together with the types of appointment he was given and the fact that he was commissioned and then promoted without purchase, it can be inferred that Saunders was a very competent administrative soldier of great value to his regiment. As adjutant 1809-16 he would have had regular contact with the regiment's colonel who, from 1810 to 1813, was Major General (from 1811 Lieutenant-General) Lord William Bentinck. Bentinck was not only colonel of 20th Light Dragoons 1810-13 but also commander-in-chief in the Mediterranean 1811-15 and local commander of the British forces in Catalonia 1813-14; his brother - Lord Frederick - commanded the cavalry brigade in which 20th Light Dragoons served. The brothers Bentinck and Saunders would have met and corresponded regularly and it is probable that Saunders had many opportunities to commend himself, as a competent administrator, to his colonel and his brigade commander.

Saunders could not have been referred to as 'captain' prior to 1821, in which year he became captain and adjutant in the Southern Regiment of West Yorkshire Yeomanry and by which time 20th Light Dragoons had been disbanded for two years; Lord Frederick Bentinck, commander of the Mansfield troop of Nottinghamshire Yeomanry since 1821, died in 1828. Thus, this gun must have been presented between 1821 and 1828 and was probably given in recognition of Lord Frederick's recommendation of Saunders, an experienced, deserving and competent administrative Regular soldier, to a salaried post in the yeomanry of his county where he could be of service.

Estimate: 2000-3000
97.     A 25 BORE BALKAN SILVER-MOUNTED MIQUELET-LOCK MUSKET, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with tapering sighted barrel retained by six repoussé silver bands, inscribed 'Lazarino Cominazzo' over the breech and fitted with moulded silver back-sight, border-engraved barrel tang, the lock applied with silver plaques including a brief inscription on the bridle, applied with a silver plaque set with a piece of coral on the front of the steel, wooden full stock encased over the greater part of its surface with silver plaques, the fore-end decorated with a trellis pattern of repoussé flowers, faceted butt encased with silver en suite with the fore-end and retaining an early fabric covering, a pair of iron sling swivels, an early sling, and original steel ramrod
115.5cm; 45 1/2in barrel

Estimate: 1000-1500
98.     A 12 BORE NORTH AFRICAN MIQUELET-LOCK MUSKET, DATED 1242AH (1826/7)
with octagonal sighted barrel fitted with standing back-sight overlaid with silver at the breech, retained by five pierced and chased silver bands and a further silver band, steel lock of characteristic form, inset with chased silver panels decorated with scrollwork, inscribed with the date and the maker's signature on the underside and engraved with a crescent on the front of the steel, figured hardwood three-quarter stock profusely inlaid over its full length with numerous silver plaques pierced with openwork designs of scrolling foliage, faceted butt inlaid en suite, silver butt cap, retaining a portion of its fabric thumb-defence, and original silver-tipped wooden ramrod
146cm; 57 1/2in barrel
Estimate: 1000-1500
99.     A 20 BORE INDIAN FLINTLOCK GUN, 19TH CENTURY
with tapering barrel inlaid with bands of twisted pattern at the breech and muzzle and retained by five string bands, the breech incorporating a standing back-sight and cut with a brief inscription, stepped blued lock in the English taste, including stylised maker's name beneath the pan, hardwood full stock applied with steel bands retaining some etched watered pattern, including a grooved panel behind the breech for sighting, steel trigger-guard with pineapple finial, a pair of sling swivels, and steel ramrod, perhaps the original
109.2cm; 43in barrel

Estimate: 1000-1500
100.    AN 18 BORE INDIAN MATCHLOCK MUSKET, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with tapering barrel formed with a fluted vase-shaped muzzle, decorated with bands of silver beadwork and retained by six string bands, strongly tapering at the breech, inlaid with a gold inscription on the left and fitted with standing back-sight, steel pan with pivot-cover, hardwood full stock with faceted hook-shaped butt, and horn butt-cap (areas of wear, ramrod missing)
112cm; 44in barrel
Estimate: 400-600
101.    A RARE .650 CALIBRE FLINTLOCK CAVALRY PISTOL FOR THE NIZAM OF HYDERABAD'S FOURTH CAVALRY, CIRCA 1830
with 9in browned barrel stamped with London view and proof marks, arsenal markings and '9' and '10' crowned at the breech, stirrup ramrod retained by a spring, border-engraved lock engraved 'Nizam's 4th Cavalry', regulation walnut full stock, and brass mounts including side-plate, trigger-guard and butt cap stamped '228', the latter fitted with steel lanyard, and remaining in crisp condition throughout
38cm; 15in

The 4th Regiment Nizam's Cavalry was raised in 1826 and became 4th Cavalry Hyderabad Contingent in 1854. For another pistol made for this regiment but without a side-plate see R. Brooker, p.102 and 107. See also D. F. Harding 1997, pp. 296-301.
Estimate: 1000-1500
102.    A RARE INDIAN OVER-AND-UNDER FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS, CIRCA 1830
with two-stage barrels each swelling towards an elliptical muzzle, decorated over the muzzle, the median and the breech with cartouche-shaped panels filled with gold koftgari scrolling foliage and fruit, flush-fitting lock decorated en suite with the barrels, fitted with sliding pan covering an additional pan for the lower barrel, pierced cock and steel each decorated with matching designs in gold koftgari, hardwood full stock, chequered grip, white metal mounts comprising tear-shaped side-plate, trigger-guard and butt-plate of shaped outline, and a pair of ramrod-pipes, and steel ramrod, probably the original
40.5cm; 16in

Estimate: 2000-3000
103.    THE LAMBLE COLLECTION

A BHUTANESE DAGGER, LATE 19TH CENTURY AND A GURKHA KUKRI KNIFE
the first with straight blade from a regulation bayonet, double-edged towards the point, white metal hilt of characteristic form including two beadwork collars, the grip bound with plaited wire, in its original scabbard with fabric loop for suspension; the second of characteristic form, with broad curved blade, hardwood grip, in its scabbard (accompanying knives and pouch missing)
the first: 36cm; 14 1/8in

(2)
Estimate: 80-120
104.    A TURKISH YATAGHAN, DATED 1222 A.H. (CIRCA 1807/8)
with slightly curved single-edged blade, decorated with gold koftgari including an inscription on the back-edge, two large calligraphic panels, a central calligraphic rosette surrounded by foliage on one side and a broad panel of scrollwork and flowers on the other, silver hilt enclosing the forte, set with a faceted red paste over the forte and seven fluted corals on the back-strap, and the grips fitted with a pair of large ivory grip-scales rising to an eared pommel (one cracked through, age cracks), in its original wooden scabbard repoussé with flowers, foliage and strapwork within beaded frames, the locket with horizontal bands of gilt flowerheads, and the chape formed as a marine monster (small chips and wear)
75.5cm; 29 3/4in

The back edge gives the name of the maker as 'Work of al-Hajj Muhammad'; the owner as: ' Owner Mustafa Agha' It is dated 1222 (AD 1807-08) and ends with two benedictory phrases. The cartouches bear a benedictory quatrain in Turkish. The central rosette bears the names of 'The Seven Sleepers and their dog'
Estimate: 1200-1500
105.    AN AXE HEAD, 14TH CENTURY, PROBABLY GERMAN
in excavated condition, with near rectangular head moulded at the rear, broad neck, and the rear bean formed with a hammer head, on a later wooden haft
17cm; 6 3/4in head

Provenance

Sotheby's, London, 1st November 1983, lot 116

Estimate: 200-300
106.    A GERMAN HALBERD, LATE 16TH CENTURY
with long central spike of diamond section, curved axe-blade pierced with three groups of holes, rear spike pierced with a vertical arrangement of holes, a pair of long straps (pitted), on an early wooden haft fitted with an additional pair of straps
87cm; 34 1/4in head

Provenance

Sotheby Parke Bernet, 23rd May 1978, lot 229
Estimate: 300-400
107.    A RARE CAROLINGIAN LUGGED SPEAR HEAD, 7TH/10TH CENTURY
in excavated condition, with leaf-shaped blade formed with a pair of pronounced basal lugs, and tapering socket (losses, one lug bent)
39cm; 15 3/8in head

Estimate: 300-500
108.    A SAXON HORSEMAN'S HAMMER, EARLY 17TH CENTURY
with moulded hammer head formed with a circular face, long beak-shaped fluke of stiff diamond section, compressed spherical central finial, tapering belt hook, tubular haft, small circular hand-guard, moulded basal cap, and the grip retaining its original binding of plaited wire and 'Turk's heads'
54.5cm; 21 3/8in

Provenance

Dr B. Giesker, Zurich
Schloss Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Christie's 16th June 1993, lot 31


Estimate: 3000-5000
109.    A FINE MACE FORMED ENTIRELY OF STEEL, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 16TH CENTURY, GERMAN OR ITALIAN
with head formed of seven wedge-shaped flanges each incorporating a reinforced tip of cruciform section, moulded central finial, tapering tubular haft pierced for a thong, chiselled over the upper portion with a running pattern of foliage against a punched ground within four long rectangular frames, the grip chiselled with a trellis pattern against a punched ground, basal cap decorated with matching leafy ornament, and in fine condition throughout
64.5cm; 25 3/8in

Provenance

Christie, Manson & Woods, 23rd May 1979, lot 29

The present mace belongs to a small group decorated in this manner of which other examples are preserved in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, Berlin; the former Town Arsenal, Vienna;The Hermitage, St Petersburg;The Armoury of Konopištì Castle,The Czech Republic; and the Kretzschmar von Kienbusch Collection in the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Another, formerly in the Warwick Castle Collections was sold Thomas Del Mar Ltd in association with Sotheby's 12th December 2007, lot 286 (£3,840 including premium). For a discussion of this group see W. Rose in ZHWK 1909-02, pp. 359-366.
Estimate: 4000-6000
110.    A SCOTTISH BASKET-HILTED BACKSWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 18TH CENTURY
with broad blade double-edged towards the point, cut with a pair of long fullers and retaining traces of an inscription including 'Andrea' and 'Farara' on the respective faces (patinated, the edge with nicks, one very small hole), steel basket-hilt of flattened bars (one cracked), carrying an alternating arrangement of slender and square panels each pierced with hearts and rondels (quillon missing), ovoid pommel, perhaps the original, and later grip
84.5cm; 33 1/4in blade

Provenance

The Marquiss of Tweeddale, Yester House, East Lothian, Christie, Manson & Woods , 8th December 1969, lot 181

Estimate: 1200-1800
111.    A BRITISH INFANTRY HANGER BY SAMUEL HARVEY, MID-18TH CENTURY
with curved blade double-edged towards the tip, cut with a slender fuller along the back edge and stamped with a running fox inscribed 'Harvey' on each side (worn), stamped with the number '9' beneath a crown at the forte, brass hilt of regulation type, stamped 'Gloster M-S-B' and '49', and spirally moulded brass grip
62.5cm; 24 5/8in blade

Provenance

Captain W. Korner, Sotheby & Co., London, 13th April 1970, lot 174

For a discussion of this type of hanger see A. D. Darling 1970 pp. 124-136.

Estimate: 400-700
112.    A RARE DRAGOON OFFICER'S 'FIELD' OR FIGHTING SWORD, ATTRIBUTABLE TO 11TH DRAGOONS, CIRCA 1768-83
with tapering blade of regulation type, double-edged towards the point, engraved on each side with the crowned Royal arms enclosed by the Garter above the Royal motto and inscription 'London', stamped 'Bland' on the back-edge, steel hilt comprising half basket-guard formed of numerous flattened moulded bars, stamped with the owner's name 'R. Dundas' beneath, finely chiselled maned lion's head pommel, and original spirally-bound sharkskin-covered grip
83.5cm; 32 7/8in blade

The form of the hilt of this sword is comparable to that of several recorded swords with dateable silver hilts, a particular example being a Dragoon officer's sword with hilt by William Kinman, hallmarked London 1775-76, in the National War Museum of Scotland (M.1996.40) on which the finely-chiselled lion's head pommel is remarkably similar to that of this sword. This sword was probably retailed by Bland and so cannot pre-date 1768; the regiment to which it is confidently attributed became Light Dragoons in 1783, after which the officers and men would have carried light cavalry swords.

Ralph Dundas was born in Scotland circa 1730 and commissioned cornet by purchase in 4th Dragoons on 30th May 1755. Promoted lieutenant by purchase on 26th January 1758, he served as adjutant 24th August 1758 to 20th January 1762 before purchasing a captaincy in 11th Dragoons on 12th February 1762. Having served in Germany in the last year of the Seven Years' War, Dundas was placed on half-pay on 25th April 1763, upon the reduction of his regiment following the coming of peace. On 16th September 1763, he exchanged from half pay back to a captaincy in 11th Dragoons and purchased the regiment's majority on 6th June 1770. Promoted lieutenant-colonel by brevet on 11th September 1775, he purchased the regimental lieutenant-colonelcy on 27th September 1775 and was promoted colonel by brevet on 16th May 1782 - the 11th becoming Light Dragoons in 1783. Promoted major general on 28th April 1790, he commanded a heavy cavalry brigade in Flanders in 1794 and was made colonel of 8th (or the King's) Regiment of Foot on 30th July 1794. Promoted lieutenant-general on 26th January 1797, he was appointed to command the Midland District in Ireland and served throughout the Irish Rebellion of 1798, initially with distinction at Kilcullen in May but subsequently attracting criticism because of his lenient attitude to surrendered rebels. He was promoted general on 29th April 1802 and died in London on 7th February 1814, having been governor of Duncannon Fort, Co. Wexford, since at least 1802.

Estimate: 1500-2000
113.    A BRONZE SHORTSWORD, CIRCA 1200-900 B.C.
with tapering blade of hollow-diamond section, slender tang pierced with a single hole, openwork hilt enclosing the lower portion of the blade, pierced with a herringbone arrangement of slotted panels on the front and back and a series of triangular panels on each side, and flanged pommel
33cm; 13in blade

Estimate: 700-1000
114.    A RARE SCRAMASAX, 8TH/9TH CENTURY, NORTH EUROPEAN OR SCANDINAVIAN
in excavated condition, of characteristic form, with flat single-edged blade (the forward portion cracked through), incised with a linear pattern along the back-edge, and tapering ricasso
47cm; 18 1/2in blade

Estimate: 1000-1200
115.    AN EASTERN EUROPEAN OR RUSSIAN SABRE, 9TH/10TH CENTURY
in excavated condition, with curved single-edged blade, iron hilt comprising a pair of short slightly curved flat quillons, curved tang, and flattened pear-shaped bronze pommel
76cm; 30in blade

The most famous sword from this distinctive group is the so-called sword of Charlemagne preserved in the former Imperial Schatzkammer, Vienna, inv. no. WS XIII 5. For a discussion of these swords see J. V. Kalmár 1935/6, pp. 150-155.
Estimate: 2000-3000
116.    A VIKING SWORD, 8TH/9TH CENTURY
in excavated condition, with broad pattern-welded blade tapering to a sharp point, cut with a pair of long central fullers filled with herringbone pattern (small holes, chips), iron hilt comprising short cross-piece, and two-stage pommel
81.5cm; 32in blade

Provenance

A Scandinavian Private Collection.
Robin Wigington, Poet's Arbour, Stratford-upon-Avon, 1984

Estimate: 4000-6000
117.    A VERY RARE MEDIEVAL SWORD WITH LATTEN POMMEL, LATE 13TH/FIRST HALF OF THE 14TH CENTURY
in excavated condition, with stiff narrow tapering blade cut with a broad three-quarter length fuller retaining traces of an inscription on each side, iron cross-piece of tapering section, well formed wheel pommel of latten, and the grip with a modern leather binding
86cm; 33 7/8in blade

Provenance

Christie, Manson & Woods, 18th April 1985, lot 22

Swords with latten pommels rarely appear on the market. A detached latten pommel of related form is preserved in the Royal Armouries, Leeds. See A. R. Dufty 1974, p. 18, plate 23a.

Estimate: 6000-8000
118.    A FINELY CONSTRUCTED COPY OF A 12TH CENTURY SWORD, LATE 19TH CENTURY
with broad fullered blade, iron hilt comprising straight cross-piece and brazil nut pommel, and leather-covered grip
83cm 32 5/8in blade

Estimate: 400-500
119.    A COMPOSITE MEDIEVAL GREAT SWORD, CIRCA 1270-1320
in excavated condition, with broad flat near parallel-edged blade tapering to a blunt point, formed with a pair of fullers over almost half of its length and cut with a latten-filled heart and cross mark on each side (the latten with losses), iron hilt comprising a pair of 16th century straight tapering quillons of circular section, and slightly compressed wheel pommel, and later fabric-bound grip
98cm; 38 1/2in blade

Provenance

Christie, Manson & Woods, 20th July 1983, lot 27

Estimate: 2000-3000
120.    A HAND-AND-A-HALF SWORD IN THE ITALIAN OR SWISS STYLE OF CIRCA 1520, 19TH CENTURY
with broad flat blade tapering towards the tip, rectangular ricasso with blunt edges, steel hilt including a pair of straight writhen quillons, and spirally-fluted plummet-shaped pommel en suite with the quillon terminals, and two-stage leather-covered wooden grip (minor worm damage)
89cm; 35in blade

Provenance

Stadrath Richard Zschille, no.229, sold Christie Manson & Woods, 25th January 1897.
Estimate: 2000-3000
121.    a NORTH EUROPEAN two-hand sword, late 16th century, PROBABLY DUTCH
with broad double-edged blade stamped with a decorative mark, cut with three short fullers of differing length and framed with wrigglework lines on each side, the forte with flattened edges for additional grip and incorporating a pair of basal lugs, waisted ricasso stamped with a bladesmith's mark on each side, steel hilt comprising a pair of slightly down-curved flattened quillons with spatulate terminals formed with a pair of tightly scrolling finials behind and with fluted mouldings, a further pair of scrolling lugs beneath, inner and outer ring-guards each interrupted by a pair of fluted globular mouldings and filled with a further inner ring (one repaired), gadrooned bun-shaped pommel, and later leather-covered wooden grip
120cm; 47 1/4in blade

Provenance

Sotheby Parke Bernet, Zurich, 25th November 1980, lot 28

For a sword with a cross-guard of similar design formerly in the Visser collection see J. D. Puype 1996, pp. 126-129, Cat. No. 542.
Estimate: 3000-5000
122.    A COMPOSITE GERMAN TWO-HAND SWORD, FIRST QUARTER OF THE 16TH CENTURY
with broad blade tapering towards the point, cut with a long shallow fuller and with a latten inlaid stylised wolf mark (losses) on each side, slightly waisted rectangular ricasso formed with blunt edges and a pair of short lugs, retaining minute traces of engraved decoration and further latten inlay (areas of heavy pitting), steel hilt comprising a pair of later straight moulded quillons with spirally-fluted bud-shaped terminals, and spirally-fluted pear-shaped pommel (pitting), and later spirally carved wooden grip
120.5cm; 47 1/2in blade

Provenance

Christianson Collection, Copenhagen

Sotheby Parke Bernet, 18th October 1977, lot 227

Estimate: 2500-3500
123.    A NORTH GERMAN SWORD RAPIER, CIRCA 1560, PROBABLY BRUNSWICK
with long tapering slender blade of stiff-diamond section, stamped with the bladesmith's mark on one side, steel hilt comprising a pair of straight flattened quillons with spatulate terminals, outer ring-guard swelling towards the centre, formed with a point top and bottom and filled with a solid plate, inner guard formed of a diagonal bar joining the quillon to a short lower arm and with a thumb loop, and square cushion-shaped pommel, and early grip of plaited wire and 'Turk's heads' (the upper Turk's head replaced)
105.5cm; 41 1/2in blade


Provenance

The Property of a Gentleman, Sotheby & Co., 19th May 1970, lot 96

A number of military rapiers and estocs with hilts of this form are associated with the armoury of the Dukes of Brunswick, sold Sotheby's Hanover October 2005, lot numbers 218, 220 and 221. The hilt conforms to Norman type 12.

Estimate: 6000-8000
124.    A RARE NORTH EUROPEAN BALLOCK DAGGER, LATE 16TH CENTURY, POSSIBLY ENGLISH
in excavated condition, with tapering blade of triangular-section, stamped with a flower mark on one side, rootwood grip formed with a pair of characteristic nodules at the base and reinforced with a steel plate enclosing the forte, the upper portion spirally-carved and rising to a globular pommel carved with rondels (chipped)
34.5cm; 13 5/8in measure

Provenance

Sotheby's 27th July 1991, lot 179

The Lamble notebooks state that this dagger probably comes from the Queenhithe find, which would be supported by its characteristic Thames patina.
Estimate: 2500-3500
125.    A RONDEL DAGGER FORMED ENTIRELY OF STEEL, PROBABLY LATE 15TH CENTURY
with stout three-stage blade reinforced at the tip, formed with a slender fuller along the hollowed back-edge on one side, inlaid in latten with the bladesmith's mark, the letter 'I' at the forte, the hilt formed of a disc top and bottom of differing size, each engraved with delicate foliage around the edge, the upper with spiralling lines and retained by a foliate copper rivet, and fluted grip engraved with pairs of spiralling lines
35cm; 13 3/4in

Estimate: 1500-2500
126.    A GERMAN LEFT-HAND DAGGER, CIRCA 1600
with robust tapering blade of diamond-section, inlaid in latten with the bladesmith's mark, a crowned cross and orb, on one side, rectangular ricasso hollowed for the thumb, steel hilt comprising a pair of vertically recurved forward-canted flattened quillons with bud-shaped terminals, off-set side-ring interrupted by a circular moulding, associated fluted globular pommel, and later spirally-carved wooden grip (areas of pitting)
48cm; 18 7/8in

Provenance

Sotheby Parke Bernet, 14th October 1975, lot 324

Literature

Leslie Southwick, The Price Guide to Antique Edged Weapons, 1982, p. 201, no. 584.

Estimate: 1200-1800
127.    A RARE ITALIAN HAND-AND-A-HALF SWORD, PROBABLY VENETIAN, 17TH CENTURY
with sharply tapering blade of flattened-diamond section, cut with a short fuller on each face, rectangular ricasso formed with blunted edges for grip, cut with a fuller on each side continuing from the blade and incised with a decorative line along the borders, steel hilt comprising a pair of drooping quillons each terminating in a pair of volutes enclosing a bud-shaped finial, swollen quillon-block chiselled with further pairs of volutes, flattened pear-shaped pommel decorated on each side en suite with the guard and enriched with incised lines, and original moulded wooden grip retaining its tooled leather covering
105cm; 41 1/4in blade

Provenance

Christie, Manson & Woods, 20th December 1978, lot 105

Literature

Leslie Southwick, The Price Guide to Antique Edged Weapons, 1982, p.22 no. 25

The hilt of this sword belongs to a distinctive group of which others are preserved in the armoury of the Palazzo Ducale, Venice (inv. no. A651) and The Royal Armouries, Leeds (inv. no. IX763). Another, formerly in the Baron de Cosson sale was sold Sotheby & Co. 23 May 1946, lot 151. A sword with a pommel of similar form and decoration and related quillons is attributed to the ownership of Doge Alvise I Mocenigo (reigned 1570-77), and is now preserved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

Estimate: 6000-8000
128.    A RAPIER IN THE ITALIAN STYLE OF CIRCA 1560, 19TH CENTURY
with tapering blade stamped with a series of decorative cross marks within a short fuller, rectangular ricasso, steel hilt cast in low relief, including a pair of horizontally recurved quillons decorated with foliage on the terminals, outer ring-guard with a central winged cherubic mask, lower ring-guard formed en suite, bifurcated inner-guard, and plummet-shaped pommel decorated with cherub masks and acanthus, and the grip with plaited steel wire and 'Turk's heads'
103.5cm; 40 3/4in blade

The hilt is based on a sword associated with the region of Emilia, preserved in the Museo Civico, Bologna, inv. no. MC32.

Estimate: 2000-3000
129.    AN ITALIAN BROADSWORD, LATE 16th/EARLY 17TH CENTURY
with tapering blade of diamond-section, cut with a short narrow fuller incised with a running wolf and a cross and orb mark on each side, steel 'crab-claw' hilt of characteristic form including a pair of drooping quillons and a further pair of curved inner bars all chiselled with groups of vertical lines, outer ring-guard fitted with a later pierced sprung-in plate, faceted globular pommel, and the grip with a later plaited wire binding (areas of light pitting)
73cm; 28 3/4in blade
Estimate: 800-1000
130.    A RARE GERMAN SWEPT-HILT RAPIER WITH CHISELLED STEEL HILT, CIRCA 1610
with tapering blade of flattened-hexagonal section, signed 'Hortuno Aguir en Toledo' between a series of pierced slots and circles within a pair of slender fullers on each face, tapering ricasso stamped with the bladesmith's mark on each side (rubbed, the blade with areas of pitting) and cut with cross hatching on the edges, steel hilt of rounded bars comprising a pair of straight swelling quillons (the right quillon expertly replaced), écusson, outer ring-guard joined at the base to a pair of arms, lower ring-guard, knuckle-guard joined to the ring-guard by a diagonal bar, trifurcated inner-guard, and barrel-shaped pommel, the principal bars and the pommel chiselled with an arrangement of nude figures in differing attitudes amidst scrolling foliage (areas of pitting, rubbed), and the grip bound with plaited wire and 'Turk's heads'
98.5cm; 38 7/8in blade

Provenance

Eric Valentine, sold Christie, Manson & Woods, 25th February 1981, lot 55.

Literature

Eric Valentine, Rapiers, Arms & Armour Press 1968, no. 15

Hortuno de Aguirre is recorded in Toledo in the early 17th Century. A sword with a blade and hilt of related form is preserved in the Wallace Collection (inv. no. A589). For a discussion of this group see A. V. B. Norman 1986 pp. 136-7. Another blade stamped with this mark is preserved in the Armeria Reale, Madrid (inv. no. G81).

Estimate: 5000-7000
131.    A COMPOSITE RAPIER IN THE MANNER OF CLAUDE SEVIGNY OF TOURS, LATE 16TH CENTURY AND LATER
with tapering blade of flattened-hexagonal section, stamped 'Sahagun' between a series of decorative marks within a short fuller on each side, tapering ricasso, finely pierced and chiselled steel hilt formed of flattened bars incorporating openwork panels filled with figures, including down-curved quillon, knuckle-guard, shaped quillon-block pierced with scrolls and a mask on each side, a pair of arms, outer ring-guard joining the knuckle-guard to one of the arms, lower ring-guard, later plain trifurcated inner-guard, the principal bars decorated on the upper and lower edges with a pierced chain pattern, solid pommel decorated with an oval filled with the figures of Venus and Mars on the front and back respectively, and the grip bound with plaited brass wire and 'Turk's heads'
100cm; 39 3/8in blade

Provenance

Sotheby & Co. 9th October 1972, lot 371
R. Ewart Oakeshott

For a discussion of Claude Sevigny of Tours see G. F. Laking 1920, pp. 296-299.

Estimate: 3500-4500
132.    A PAPPENHEIMER RAPIER, CIRCA 1630 AND LATER
with tapering blade of flattened-hexagonal section, stamped with a series of decorative marks within a pair of short fullers on each side at the forte, symmetrical steel hilt formed of flattened rounded bars each interrupted by a central moulding, comprising a pair of quillons with flattened bud-shaped terminals, outer ring-guard (one terminal detached at the rear), lower ring-guard fitted with a sprung-in plate pierced with a series of stars, quatrefoils and circles, a pair of arms joined to the upper ring-guard by a pair of arms, knuckle-guard with recurved finial en suite with the quillons, decorated throughout with a later chiselled scale pattern enriched with silver pellets (small losses), ovoid pommel decorated en suite with the bars, and the later wire-bound grip with 'Turk's heads'
100.3cm; 39 1/2in blade

Provenance

Sotheby Parke Bernet, 22nd April 1980, lot 126


Estimate: 2000-3000
133.    AN ITALIAN MULTI-RING RAPIER, CIRCA 1630-40
with associated tapering blade, rectangular ricasso stamped with the bladesmith's name 'Franc..' and 'C.Mastio' on the respective sides, symmetrical steel hilt of slender faceted bars, including a pair of vertically recurved quillons, deep guard of six concentric rings, fitted at the base with a figure-of-eight shaped plate pierced and chiselled with a green man mask on each side, knuckle-guard joined to the guard by an additional bar and fluted barrel-shaped pommel (probably associated), and later wire-bound grip with 'Turk's heads'
94.7cm; 37 1/4in blade

Provenance

Sotheby Parke Bernet, 22nd April 1980, lot 124


Estimate: 3000-5000
134.    AN ITALIAN SWEPT-HILT RAPIER, CIRCA 1630
with associated blade of diamond section, tapering ricasso signed 'Marson' one side, symmetrical steel hilt of slender moulded bars, comprising vertically recurved quillons with globular terminals (one repaired), three outer ring-guards of diminishing size and each interrupted by a central moulding, fitted with a scalloped double shell-guard, knuckle-guard joined to the upper ring-guard by a diagonal bar, and associated tapering barrel-shaped pommel (the grip replaced)
119.5cm; 47in blade

Provenance

Sotheby & Co., London, 12th October 1970, lot 192


Estimate: 2000-3000
135.    A GERMAN PIKEMAN'S SWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY
with tapering double-edged blade, rectangular ricasso formed with blunted edges and incised with decorative lines along the edge, stamped with the bladesmith's mark, the letter 'W' on one side, steel hilt of flattened rounded bars, comprising a pair of vertically recurved quillons with fish-tail terminals, diagonal ring-guard joining the quillons to a pair of lower arms, the latter formed with a pair of additional up-turned bars with terminals en suite with the quillons and a further ring at the base, trifurcated inner-guard, and flattened pommel of fish-tail form pierced with a hole on one side, and the grip with its original binding of plaited wire and 'Turk's heads'
92cm; 36 1/4in blade

Provenance

A Collection formed by a Maréchal de France, formed in the course of his service as a Governor in Germany during the Napoleonic Wars, sold Sotheby Parke Bernet, Zurich, 25th November 1980, lot 108.

Six swords with hilts of this form are recorded in the former Town Arsenal, Vienna and a further seventy-six at Schloss Ambras. See Schallaburg 1977, p. 155, no. 670 and A.V.B.Norman 1980, p. 88.

Estimate: 1500-2500
136.    A NORTH EUROPEAN RIDING SWORD, LATE 17TH CENTURY
with broad double-edged blade cut with three short fullers, the central fuller stamped 'Andria Ferara' and with a running wolf mark ahead on each side, symmetrical steel hilt of flattened rounded bars, comprising ring-guards each interrupted by a central moulding and fitted with a sprung-in plate pierced with series of holes enclosed within a strapwork panel, knuckle-guard formed en suite and joined to the ring-guards by a scrolling bar front and back, globular pommel chiselled with leafy ornament, and later grip
84.5cm; 33 1/4in blade

Estimate: 1000-1400
137.    A RIDING SWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY, PROBABLY GERMAN
with associated broad tapering blade cut with a short fuller stamped with the bladesmith's name 'Sebastian Hernie' on each side and 'MDX', finely chiselled steel hilt comprising a pair of vertically recurved quillons with bud-shaped terminals decorated with volutes and scrolls of foliage, a pair of blunt écusson, outer ring-guard interrupted by a globular moulding en suite with the quillons, small down-curved shell-guard decorated with leafy ornament, thumb loop, and matching globular pommel, and later grip bound with plaited wire and 'Turk's heads' (areas of pitting)
87.5cm; 34 1/2in blade

Provenance

Sotheby's 15th May 1984, lot 88

A sword with a hilt of related form including a vestigial shell-guard is preserved in the Solingen Blade Museum. See H. R. Uhlemann 1968 pp. 88-9.
Estimate: 3000-5000
138.    A VENETIAN SCHIAVONA, MID-17TH CENTURY
with broad double-edged blade cut with a near full-length fuller on each side and retaining traces of engraving at the forte, steel basket-hilt of characteristic form comprising a trellis pattern of flattened bars (one bar cracked, one early repair), slightly down-curved quillon with globular terminal, shield-shaped pommel formed with a central hemispherical moulding on each side, joined to the guard by a steel ring, and original wire-bound leather-covered wooden grip (small losses)
79.8cm; 31 3/8in blade

Provenance

L. F. McCardle, Sheffield Park, sold 25th May 1971, lot 835

Estimate: 800-1000
139.    A NORTH EUROPEAN BROADSWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY
with broad flat blade decorated with a gibbet and an inscription on one side, steel hilt of circular bars, comprising inner and outer ring guards of differing size each filled with a pierced sprung-in plate chiselled with scrolling mulberry fruit and foliage issuant from an urn, drawn-up at the front to an additional bar interrupted by a globular moulding, short down-curved quillon with globular terminal, knuckle-guard formed en suite and joined to the frontal guard by a diagonal bar, the inside with a thumb loop, compressed spherical pommel, and wire-bound grip with 'Turk's heads'
83.2cm; 32 3/4in blade

Provenance

Sotheby's 23rd April 1985, lot 139

The inscription reads 'Der Kav Fied As Fail Wirt Und Find Eias Verlorn Wirt Der Stirwt Edas Er Kranckh Wiert' which reads in translation 'If you find this sword and do not return it to its owner you will become ill.'

Estimate: 700-1000
140.    A FINE NORTH EUROPEAN DISH-HILT RAPIER, MID-17TH CENTURY, PROBABLY ENGLISH
with tapering slender blade stamped with the bladesmith's name ' Ortiz Tesche' and 'IHN Solingen', within a short fuller on the respective faces, symmetrical steel hilt chiselled in low relief, comprising shallow dish-guard decorated on the outside with a circular arrangement of branches issuant with mulberries on a ground of tightly scrolling foliage, the border divided into quarters by four grotesque masks, straight quillons with globular terminals, quillon-block chiselled with a broad acanthus leaf on each side, outer ring-guard interrupted by a central moulding, knuckle-guard interrupted by a globular central moulding en suite with the quillons, globular pommel chiselled throughout with elaborate patterns of foliage against a punched and striated ground, and spirally-fluted grip with later copper wire binding and 'Turk's heads', and remaining in fine condition throughout
109cm; 43in blade

Provenance

Henry Griffith Keasby, sold The American Art Association, inc. New York, 5-6th December 1924, lot 249.

Eric Valentine, sold Christie, Manson & Woods, 25th February 1981, lot 57.

The hilt of this rapier is of notably high quality compared to other English examples of this type. Another is preserved in the Royal Armouries, Leeds. See A. R. Dufty 1974, p. 20, plate 30b. For a discussion of this group see C. Blair 1974, pp. 106-7.
Estimate: 8000-10000
141.    AN ENGLISH BASKET-HILTED BACKSWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY
with broad blade double-edged towards the tip, stamped 'IHN Solingen' between a series of decorative marks within a pair of long fullers on each side, steel basket-guard of flattened rounded bars carrying a pair of small panels each incised with scale ornament, a pair of loop-shaped bars beneath, flattened bun-shaped pommel decorated en suite, and later wooden grip
86.4cm; 34in blade

For a similar example and a discussion of this type of early cavalry sword see A. D. Darling 1969, p. 80. A very similar sword with blade dated 1648 is preserved in the Royal Armouries, Leeds, see A. R. Dufty 1974, plate 51 (b).

Estimate: 700-900
142.    AN ENGLISH DISH-HILT RAPIER, MID-17TH CENTURY
with associated blade of flattened oval section, cut with a pair of short fullers and stamped with a bladesmith's mark on one side (the tip with one small chip), steel hilt comprising shallow cup-guard pierced and chiselled with scrolling foliage inhabited by winged masks and stylised figures supporting portrait ovals, inner and outer ring-guards joined to the cup-guard by a pair of short arms, a pair of short quillons with tightly curled chiselled spatulate terminals, knuckle-guard, and globular pommel (tang lengthened, pommel screw replaced), all chiselled en suite with the guard, and later grip bound with plaited copper wire
99.4cm; 39 1/8in blade

Estimate: 800-1200
143.    A FINE ENGLISH MORTUARY SWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY
with tapering blade double-edged towards the tip, cut with a pair of long slender fullers of differing length on each side, stamped 'Andrea' and 'Ferara' respectively between a series of decorative cross marks, and with the bladesmith's mark at the forte on one side, symmetrical steel hilt comprising a pair of foliate langets, basket-guard pierced and chiselled with scrolling foliage inhabited by birds and masks and carrying three ovals filled with classical figures on the base, the knuckle-guard joined to the front and rear guard by a pair of scrolling bars and with a further pair of scrolling bars, vestigial scrolling quillon, ovoid pommel chiselled with scrolling foliage and with a single mask on one side, and retaining its original wooden grip (light worm damage) with traces of its wire binding
83cm; 32 5/8in blade

Provenance

Sotheby's, London, 23rd April 1985, lot 56

Estimate: 2000-3000
144.    A FINE ENGLISH DUELLING RAPIER, CIRCA 1640
with slender blade of flattened-diamond section, short rectangular ricasso, symmetrical blackened steel hilt of slender rectangular bars, comprising cup-guard formed of a ring-guard interrupted by a globular moulding and filled with a sprung-in plate pierced with a delicate arrangement of quatrefoils, a pair of straight quillons with drooping terminals turned in at the base and joining the base of the arms, an additional pair of arms joining the cup-guard to the quillon-block, the latter fluted, tall ovoid fluted pommel, and the grip with an early binding of plaited wire and 'Turk's heads'
95.2cm; 37 1/2in blade


The looped quillons are extremely unusual and were probably intended for catching the opponent's blade. The hilt conforms to Norman type 97, for this type and a discussion of other related examples to the present sword see A. V. B. Norman 1980, p. 172.
Estimate: 3500-4500
145.    A FINE PILLOW SWORD WITH SILVER-ENCRUSTED HILT, CIRCA 1660, PROBABLY ENGLISH
with tapering blade stamped with a series of decorative marks within a short fuller on each side, steel hilt comprising asymmetrical double shell-guard, a pair of short quillons with flattened globular terminals with small bud-like tips, quillon-block, and compressed ovoid pommel, decorated throughout in silver with bouquets of fruit, flowers, foliage and an exotic bird, all enriched with silver pellets (rubbed, small losses), and associated grip bound with plaited wire and a moulded silver collar top and bottom
90cm; 35 1/2in blade

Provenance

Mark Dineley

Estimate: 4000-6000
146.    A PILLOW SWORD WITH SILVER-ENCRUSTED HILT, MID-17TH CENTURY, PROBABLY ENGLISH
with tapering flat blade cut with two marks on each face and retaining some latten inlay (shortened), pierced and chiselled openwork steel hilt, comprising a pair of short bulbous quillons with small bud-like terminals, quillon block, and plummet-shaped pommel, decorated throughout with pellets (small losses, rubbed), and the grip with a later binding of plaited silver wire and 'Turk's heads'
64.5cm; 25 3/8in blade
Estimate: 1400-1800
147.    A FINE AND VERY RARE GARNITURE OF A CUP-HILT RAPIER AND LEFT-HAND DAGGER, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY, SPANISH OR ITALIAN
the rapier with blade of flattened-hexagonal section, stamped 'LHPHS' and 'AGHAE' between a series of decorative marks within a short fuller on the respective sides, steel hilt comprising cup-guard pierced and chiselled with a symmetrical arrangement of tightly scrolling leafy tendrils bound together by ropework bands, strongly moulded rompepuntas chiselled with an alternating arrangement of plain and foliate panels, guardapolvo pierced and chiselled with further designs of scrolling leafy tendrils enclosing expanded flowerheads all framed by bands of pellets and acanthus, a pair of straight tapering writhen quillons en suite with the brim and chiselled with expanded flowerheads on the terminals, chiselled écusson, a pair of plain arms, knuckle-guard matching the quillons, spirally moulded bun-shaped pommel, and the grip bound with plaited copper wire with a steel collar top and bottom, perhaps the original, the dagger with very slender three-stage blade, the upper portion of stiff diamond section, the middle and lower each with blunt edges chiselled with blade catching ridges and stamped with decorative circles on each face, rectangular ricasso hollowed for the thumb, formed with a pair of rings at the top and two pairs of notches for blade catching at the base, stamped with the bladesmith's mark, the letter 'B' on one side and stamped with pellets, steel hilt comprising a pair of straight quillons, curved triangular guard with strongly moulded rompepuntas, and spirally-fluted pommel, all pierced and chiselled en suite with the rapier, and the grip with later binding of plaited copper wire with a steel collar top and bottom (the tang slightly shortened), and each remaining in fine condition throughout
the rapier: 99cm; 39in blade
the dagger: 59cm; 23 1/4in

(2)

Provenance

Roy Cole, Ontario, sold Sotheby & Co., 12th October 1970, lot 264.

Estimate: 15000-20000
148.    A CUP HILT RAPIER, POSSIBLY ITALIAN CIRCA 1630
with tapering blade of flattened-diamond section, stamped 'Tengo Lpo' within a short fuller on each side, steel hilt comprising deep cup-guard formed as a flower with six petals each formed of a sprung-in plate finely pierced with trellis (one replaced), a pair of vertically recurved quillons with flattened fluted bud-shaped finials, knuckle-guard with recurved finial en suite with the quillons, joined to the cup-guard by an additional arm, associated fluted ovoid pommel (acid cleaned throughout), and wooden grip reinforced with steel bands
117.2cm; 46 1/8in blade

Provenance

Sotheby & Co. 16th April 1957, lot 186

Eric Valentine sold Christie, Manson & Woods 29th October 1986, lot 54.

Robin Wigington, Poet's Arbour, Stratford-upon-Avon

Literature

Eric Valentine, Rapiers, Arms & Armour Press 1968, no. 25

Estimate: 2000-3000
149.    A SPANISH CUP-HILT RAPIER, SECOND HALF OF THE 17TH CENTURY
with slender blade of diamond section, long ricasso of near square section, stamped with a bladesmith's mark on one side, steel hilt comprising deep cup-guard pierced with a symmetrical arrangement of tightly scrolling leafy tendrils beneath a panel of scrolling tendrils around the brim (one small crack, areas of pitting), drawn-up on one side for additional knuckle protection, a pair of straight writhen quillons (one bent), a pair of arms, and knuckle-guard each en suite with the quillons, and bun-shaped pommel chiselled with scrolling foliage, and later wire-bound grip with 'Turk's heads'
120.5cm; 47 1/2in blade
Estimate: 4000-6000
150.    A RARE SPANISH LEFT-HAND DAGGER, DATED 1683
with tapering blade of triangular-section, formed with a flattened back-edge, etched with scrolls of foliage, the bladesmith's name 'Fran Durin Ensi vied 1683' (rubbed), recessed with a pair of crescentic apertures at the base for blade-catching, rectangular ricasso formed with a notched edge, recessed for the thumb on the inner face and decorated with the sacred monogram 'IHS' on the outer face, steel hilt comprising a pair of straight quillons decorated with a writhen pattern and with fluted button terminal, triangular outer guard decorated with a radiating pattern of lozenge frames and with bold rompepuntas decorated with a pattern of roping, compressed fluted button-shaped pommel, and spirally-fluted grip with later leather covering
62.5cm; 24 5/8in

Estimate: 1500-2000
151.    A FINE PILLOW SWORD WITH SILVER FILIGREE-MOUNTED HILT, CIRCA 1680, PROBABLY SWEDISH
with tapering blade pierced with a series of circles and slots over a deep full-length fuller, gilt-brass hilt cast and chased with foliage in low relief, comprising a pair of forward-canted quillons, and compressed oval pommel, decorated throughout with finely pierced silver filigree foliate panels enriched with silver beads, and the grip with an early binding of plaited silver wire and 'Turk's heads'
80cm; 31 1/2in blade

Silver and gold filigree was produced in a number of centres in Europe including Augsburg, Genoa and Bergen from the 17th Century.
Estimate: 4000-6000
152.    AN ENGLISH HUNTING SWORD WITH SILVER-ENCRUSTED HILT, MID-17TH CENTURY
with curved blade double-edged towards the point, two fullers of differing length, cut with the bladesmith's mark, a double cross and orb mark and the initials 'S.H.G.C.' on both sides (one side rubbed), steel hilt comprising down-turned outer shell-guard, short scrolling quillon, up-turned inner shell-guard, knuckle-guard and cap pommel, decorated throughout with a trellis pattern of silver beadwork framing silver pellets, and original staghorn grip (age cracks) with an iron collar decorated en suite at the base (the silver with small losses)
64.5cm; 25 3/8in blade

Provenance

Sotheby Parke Bernet, 31st July 1984, lot 81

Another sword from this group is preserved in the Royal Armouries, Leeds. See A. R. Dufty 1974, p. 25 plate 55 b.
Estimate: 800-1000
153.    AN ENGLISH HUNTING SWORD, MID-17TH CENTURY
with broad curved blade double-edged towards the point, cut with a long slender fuller along the serrated back-edge, etched on the front 'Fide sed Cudunor' a portrait enclosed by the inscription 'Gubernaiar Hibernia', 'Nomine' and '1-50' and a mounted cavalryman, the reverse with 'In Deo Gloria' a portrait medallion of Thomas Fairfax, 'Me Fecit Solingen' and a further cavalryman, stamped with the bladesmith's mark at the forte, probably for Peter Henkels of Solingen, steel hilt formed of a pair of up-turned shell-guards of unequal size, down-curved scrolling quillon, knuckle-guard interrupted by a scallop moulding, fluted beak-shaped pommel cap and original fluted wooden grip (small chips and repairs) reinforced with an iron panel at the front
61.5cm; 24 1/4in blade

Provenance

Christie, Manson & Woods, 23rd May 1979, lot 25

Literature

Leslie Southwick, The Price Guide to Antique Edged Weapons, Woodbridge, 1982, p. 153, no. 421.

Estimate: 800-1200
154.    AN ITALIAN ARTILLERY STILETTO, MID-17TH CENTURY
with tapering blade of triangular section, incised with graduation marks and inscribed with numbers from '1' to '120', moulded forte, steel hilt comprising a pair of spirally moulded quillons, ovoid pommel formed en suite, and spirally carved horn grip inset with bone rondels and small brass nails, and with a moulded brass collar top and bottom
42.5cm; 16 3/4in
Estimate: 700-900
155.    A NORTH EUROPEAN DAGGER, LATE 17TH CENTURY
from a cut-down small-sword, with tapering blade cut with a long fuller, pierced over the greater part of its length with a series of slots and circles, steel hilt including a pair of recurved quillons with globular terminals, and horn grip carved as an Eastern potentate (patinated, grip cracked)
37cm; 14 5/8in

Provenance

Weller & Dufty, 21st March 1973, lot 836

Estimate: 250-300
156.    AN ENGLISH SILVER-HILTED HUNTING SWORD, LONDON SILVER HALLMARKS FOR 1749
with curved blade double-edged towards towards the point, etched with foliage and a strapwork panel at the forte (worn), silver hilt cast and chased in low relief, comprising down-curved shell-guard formed as a Wildman mask issuant with rococo scalloped shells and scrolls, scalloped quillon, quillon-block chiselled with a grotesque on each side, knuckle-guard interrupted by a scallop moulding, cap pommel en suite with the quillon-block, and original fluted horn grip
60cm; 23 5/8in blade
Estimate: 900-1200
157.    A FRENCH SILVER-HILTED HUNTING SWORD, CIRCA 1770
with curved blade double-edged towards the hilt, stamped with a King's head mark on each side, moulded silver hilt comprising a pair of short quillons with fluted scrolling terminals, stamped with a series of marks, perhaps including Montpellier discharge for 1774/80, cap pommel embossed with scrolls, and spirally carved ivory grip bound with silver ribband (one small age crack)
57cm; 22 1/2in blade
Estimate: 400-600
158.    A GERMAN OFFICER'S SMALL-SWORD, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with slender blade of flattened-diamond section, engraved with the owner's initials 'GZ' with decorative marks above, perhaps including a pair of shears, on each side at the forte (rubbed), steel hilt comprising a pair of straight tapering quillons of flattened-oval section, boatshell-guard, ovoid pommel, knuckle-guard (pitting) and the grip retaining an early binding of plaited copper wire
81.5cm; 32 1/8in blade

Provenance

The Counts von Giech, Schloss Thurnau, Franconia sold Sotheby & Co. 19th November 1974, lot 229


Estimate: 600-800
159.    A FRENCH SMALL-SWORD, CIRCA 1770
with colichemarde blade, etched blued and gilt with foliage, trophies and signed 'Manufactur Royale du Klingenthal' and 'Coulaux Freres' on a blued panel at the forte (oxidised), steel hilt including finely pierced and chiselled shell-guard decorated with a trellis pattern with central ovals filled with differing trophies-of-arms, globular quillon, quillon-block decorated with further trophies, knuckle-guard interrupted by a pierced openwork panel (one very small chip), oval pommel pierced with trellis and decorated with an oval front and back en suite with the shell, all enriched with a finely gilt fishroe ground (losses), and the grip with later wire binding
89.5cm; 35 1/4in blade


Provenance

The property of a collector, Sotheby Parke Bernet, 15th February 1977, lot 127
Estimate: 700-900
160.    A FINE NORTH EUROPEAN SMALL-SWORD WITH CHISELLED STEEL HILT, CIRCA 1655-65, PROBABLY DUTCH
with stout blade of diamond section cut with a pair of long fullers on two faces and engraved with a pattern of running foliage over the forte, steel hilt chiselled in relief, comprising double shell-guard decorated with a cavalry battle scene on the outer faces, mounted troops advancing against infantry and two armies meeting on the inner face, a pair of vertically recurved forward and back-canted quillons decorated with further stylised troops issuant from grotesques, the quillon-block and pommel each decorated en suite with the shell, and the grip retaining its binding of plaited wire and 'Turk's heads'
89.5cm; 35 1/4in blade

A number of small-swords with chiselled steel hilts decorated in a similar manner were formerly in the Visser Collection. See J. P. Puype 1996, cat. 555-565.
Estimate: 2500-3500
161.    A NORTH EUROPEAN SMALL-SWORD WITH SILVER-ENCRUSTED HILT, CIRCA 1680
with tapering slender blade stamped 'En Toledo', steel hilt comprising double shell-guard with moulded brim, a pair of arms, globular quillon, knuckle-guard interrupted by a central moulding, and globular pommel, decorated throughout with scrolling flowers and foliage within beadwork frames, and ovals filled with figures in contemporary dress on the shell-guard and the front of the pommel (rubbed), and the grip with a later wire binding and 'Turk's heads'
80.3cm; 31 5/8in blade

Provenance

Christie's, 15th December 1982, lot 45

Estimate: 1200-1500
162.    A CIRCULAR STEEL SHIELD IN 16TH CENTURY STYLE, 19TH CENTURY
of convex form, with a broad embossed band around the border, turned roped edge, fitted with central spike on a foliate washer, etched throughout with broad strapwork bands and ropework, the central panel divided by six converging bands enclosing the crowned initials 'MIDNEI' beneath a coronet, and the inner surface with a leather lining (worn)
63cm; 24 3/4in diameter

Provenance

Baron Guy de Rothschild, Chateau de Ferrières, sold Sotheby Parke Bernet, 12th October 1976, lot 291

Estimate: 2000-2500
163.    A GERMAN FINGERED GAUNTLET FOR THE LEFT HAND, AUGSBURG, LATE 16TH CENTURY
with pointed cuff formed with a plain turned edge, five wrist plates, later knuckle-plate, and associated finger lames and thumb-plate
31cm; 12 1/4in

Provenance

Wigmore Abbey, 1954
Dr A. R. H. Mills, Sotheby Parke Bernet, 23rd May 1978, lot 163

Estimate: 400-500
164.    A RARE GERMAN HORSE MUZZLE, CIRCA 1560-70
formed of a series of slender riveted bars, fitted at the centre with a chiselled salamander engorged with a double-headed serpent, at the cheeks with a pierced and chiselled strapwork panel carrying stylised mulberries, at the top with a near rectangular panel surmounted by alpine clematis foliage, filled with a frieze of addorsed lions and a pair of griffins centring on a rondel filled with a double eagle, the base with a circular gothic tracery panel enclosed by further clematis foliage, and the inner face formed of a series of converging bars (four replaced in its early life, areas of pitting, minor chips), retaining a pair of buckles at the top, and with some early tinned finish throughout
23.5cm; 9 1/4in high

Provenance

Baron Guy de Rothschild, Chateau de Ferrières, sold Sotheby Parke Bernet, 12th October 1976, lot 292
Christie, Manson & Woods, 11th May 1983, lot 83

The decoration of this muzzle is related to another dated 1567 preserved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (inv. no. 14.25.1683). For a discussion of this and other muzzles see A. R. Chodyñski 1987, pp. 4-20.
Estimate: 7000-10000
165.    A SOUTH GERMAN CARVED STAGHORN POWDER-FLASK AND BOX, MID-19TH CENTURY
the first of natural staghorn, carved in cameo on the outer face with a stag pursued by three hounds within a wooded landscape, with staghorn basal cap, and the top fitted with German silver Sykes patent nozzle with spring cut-off; the second of natural staghorn carved with a boar hunting scene in cameo on the outer face, fitted with associated brass cap veneered with a cameo stag, and fluted ivory basal cap
19cm; 7 1/2in

(2)

Provenance

Christie's, 20th November 1996, lot 102

Estimate: 2000-3000
166.    A FINE PAIR OF GOLD DAMASCENED ROWEL SPURS, EARLY 17TH CENTURY
each with curved heel band with figure-of-eight shaped terminals, moulded faceted crane-necks with oval lower portion, fitted with star-shaped rowel with five points, the inner surfaces retaining traces of gilding, and the outer surfaces damascened with a running pattern of scrolling foliage and flowers, the basal edge decorated with scale pattern, and each retaining its original buckles and fastenings decorated en suite (small losses)
16.5cm; 6 1/2in

(2)

Provenance

Viscount Astor, Hever Castle, Sotheby, Parke Bernet, 5th May 1983, lot 167
Christie's, South Kensington, 12th December 1997, lot 286.

Estimate: 4000-6000
167.    A 50 BORE FLINTLOCK BOX-LOCK POCKET PISTOL BY COLE, DEVIZES, BIRMINGHAM PROOF MARKS CIRCA 1820
with turn-off barrel fitted with spring bayonet beneath, box-lock action signed on ovals carried by trophies-of-arms, sliding thumb-piece safety-catch also locking the steel, flat-sided walnut butt, and engraved sliding trigger-guard locking the bayonet
19.8cm; 7 3/4in

Two makers of this name are recorded in Devizes, John of Northgate Street circa 1821-44 and Robert of Chapel corner circa 1821-27.
Estimate: 250-300
168.    A FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS BY PRUDDEN, BIRMINGHAM PRIVATE PROOF MARKS CIRCA 1800
with three-stage brass barrel engraved with rococo ornament over the breech and fitted with spring bayonet above, border-engraved tang incorporating a catch for the bayonet, signed stepped border-engraved lock, figured walnut full stock, engraved brass mounts comprising solid side-plate decorated en suite with the breech, trigger-guard with early acorn finial, butt-plate, vacant oval escutcheon and a pair of moulded ramrod-pipes, and associated brass-tipped wooden ramrod
75.5cm; 29 3/4in

Provenance

Mrs John Orton, Sotheby Parke Bernet, 12th October 1976, lot 140

Estimate: 1200-1800
169.    A CASED 140 BORE FIVE-SHOT DOUBLE ACTION PERCUSSION REVOLVER BY J. BENTLEY & SON, 6 SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL, BIRMINGHAM PROOF MARKS, CIRCA 1860
with signed octagonal sighted barrel (small areas of pitting), border and foliate-engraved frame stamped 'Patent No. 625' on the left, chequered walnut grips, and engraved steel trigger-guard: in its original fitted mahogany case, the lid applied with trade label, and retaining a number of accessories comprising copper powder-flask by C. & J. Hawksley, brass bullet mould, and oil bottle
21.8cm; 8 5/8in
Estimate: 1200-1500
170.    EUROPEAN EDGED WEAPONS
VARIOUS OWNERS

A GROUP OF SEVEN IRISH EARLY BRONZE AGE FLAT AXES, CIRCA 2000-1500 B.C.
in excavated condition, of characteristic form, seven retaining much green patina, one inscribed 'Northern Ireland', and one apparently of early transitional type with low flanges
12cm; 4 3/4in to 20cm; 7 7/8in

(7)

Provenance

Sotheby's at Slane Castle, 12th May 1980, lots 120-123

Exhibited

Limerick Museum and Reference Library 1916-77

Literature

R. Herbert, Catalogue of the Museum and Reference Library (Limerick), North Munster Antiquaries Journal, 1940
Estimate: 450-650
171.    AN IRISH LATE BRONZE AGE SOCKETED AXE AND AN EARLY BRONZE AGE FLANGED AXE 1200-500 B.C. AND 1800-1200 B.C.
in excavated condition, of characteristic form, the first retaining much green patina and inscribed 'Coolcapp Co.', the second with traces of an inscription
11.5cm; 4 1/2in and 14cm; 5 1/2in

(2)

Provenance

Sotheby's at Slane Castle, 12th May 1980, the first lot 134

Exhibited

Limerick Museum and Reference Library 1916-77

Literature

R. Herbert, Catalogue of the Museum and Reference Library (Limerick), North Munster Antiquaries Journal, 1940.
Estimate: 200-300
172.    A GROUP OF NINE IRISH EARLY BRONZE AGE FLANGED AXES, CIRCA 2000-1500 B.C.
in excavated condition, of characteristic form, three inscribed 'Limerick', 'Mitchelstown' and 'Carman Bog' respectively
9.5cm; 3 3/4in to 16.5cm; 6 1/2in

(9)

Provenance

Sotheby's at Slane Castle, 12th May 1980, lots 136 and 137

Exhibited

Limerick Museum and Reference Library 1916-77

Literature

R. Herbert, Catalogue of the Museum and Reference Library (Limerick), North Munster Antiquaries Journal, 1940
Estimate: 600-800
173.    AN IRISH EARLY BRONZE AGE SHORTSWORD OR A LONG AXE HEAD, A BRONZE SHORTSWORD, AND A SMALL BLADE, 2000-1000 B.C.
the first of tapering form, with a low medial ridge on each side, swelling towards the base and retaining three rivets for fixing to a hilt or haft; the second with long tapering blade formed with a medial ridge and widening at the base (tang missing); and the third of flattened-hexagonal section
the first: 30.5cm; 12in

(3)

Provenance

Sotheby's at Slane Castle, 12th May 1980, the first lot 128

Exhibited

Limerick Museum and Reference Library 1916-77

Literature

R. Herbert, Catalogue of the Museum and Reference Library (Limerick), North Munster Antiquaries Journal, 1940.
Estimate: 1400-1800
174.    A GERMAN CUP-HILT RAPIER, LATE 17TH CENTURY
with slender blade of flattened-hexagonal section, cut with a short fuller stamped by the bladesmith 'JACOB BRACH ANNO 1662' on one side and with a brief Latin inscription on the other, rectangular ricasso stamped with the bladesmith's mark (rubbed), steel hilt comprising elliptical cup-guard with moulded brim, engraved with scrollwork and linear patterns on the inside, a pair of straight quillons with button-shaped terminals, knuckle-guard interrupted by an elliptical moulding, globular pommel moulded en suite with the cup-guard and the grip bound with plaited wire and a moulded steel collar top and bottom
99.5cm; 39 1/8in blade
Estimate: 600-800
175.    AN ENGLISH BASKET-HILTED BACKSWORD, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 17TH CENTURY
with tapering blade cut with a pair of long fullers of differing length along the back-edge on each side and retaining traces of a bladesmith's inscription, steel basket-guard of rounded bars carrying a pair of small panels each incised with a stylised flower (rubbed), a pair of loop-shaped bars beneath, flattened bun-shaped pommel, and retaining a portion of its spirally carved wooden grip
92cm; 36 1/4in blade

See A. D. Darling 1969, p. 80 and also lot 141 in this sale.

Estimate: 700-900
176.    A CUP-HILT RAPIER, CIRCA 1630, PROBABLY ENGLISH
with slender blade of hollow-diamond section, rectangular ricasso retaining an early leather sleeve also enclosing the forte, symmetrical steel hilt comprising very large cup-guard formed of four sprung-in plates finely pierced with stars and circles, inner and outer ring-guards each with a central moulding, a pair of straight faceted quillons swelling towards the tips, tall fluted ovoid pommel (the button with one small chip, the hilt with areas of light pitting), and the grip bound with plaited wire and 'Turk's heads', probably the original
122cm; 42in blade

A rapier of very similar type formerly in the Eric Valentine collection was exhibited Art of the Armourer, 1963, cat. no. 107.
Estimate: 5000-7000
177.    A VERY RARE DETACHED SWORD BLADE, MID-17TH CENTURY
comprising broad flat blade cut with a broad shallow fuller on each side (holed), cut with a cross and orb mark and a lengthy inscription on one side, a further inscription and a cross-hilt sword on the other, and long tapering tang
86.5cm; 34 1/8in blade

The inscriptions read:

Ad Henricum Magnae Brittanniae Principem/S. Caes Carolus Henricus Sextus Edwardus Eliza Et Tibi me, Princeps tradit Alensonius/ Magna evidem Magnus Mihi Gloria Venit Absistis, Maxima ab auspicus, summa venit tuis

IEHOVA et [cross-hilt sword ]/Ad Eundem/Caesaris et Regum es per me Successor, et a me succedes regnus victor et imperus

It is likely that this blade is from a sword that belonged to Henry Stuart (1640-60), late Duke of Gloucester and youngest son of Charles I. The inclusion of the word 'Jehova' would support this given his strong protestant views.
Estimate: 600-800
178.    A FRENCH SMALL-SWORD WITH CHISELLED STEEL HILT, CIRCA 1745
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with trophies, foliage and a panel of strapwork at the forte (one chip), parcel gilt steel hilt including double shell-guard chiselled with two scenes involving a hound and a goose in a woodland on the outer face and a dragon and serpent and a pair of birds-of-prey within a framework of scrolls on the inner face, globular quillon chiselled with foliage, quillon-block decorated with a hound and an exotic bird, knuckle-guard and globular pommel each chiselled en suite with the guard, and the grip with an early binding of plaited silver wire and 'Turk's heads'
79cm; 31 1/8in blade
Estimate: 1000-1500
179.    A FRENCH SMALL-SWORD WITH SILVER-GILT HILT, PARIS FINENESS MARK AND GUARANTEE MARK FOR CIRCA 1798-1809
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with scrolls and foliage on a blued panel and signed by the bladesmith 'I.S.B.' at the forte (the bluing oxidised), silver-gilt hilt finely cast and chased in low relief comprising oval shell-guard engraved with a concentric pattern of punched ornament on the outer face, globular quillon, a pair of pas d'âne, knuckle-guard, and ovoid pommel, the principal surfaces chased with faceted beads of differing size alternating with raised fluted ovals, and swelling grip decorated en suite, in its original wooden scabbard with fishskin-covering (losses, chape missing), with silver locket punched with scrollwork and flowers
76.8cm; 30 1/4in blade
Estimate: 800-1200
180.    A COMPOSITE RAPIER, EARLY 17TH CENTURY AND LATER
with double-edged blade, rectangular ricasso (pitted), symmetrical steel hilt of rounded bars including a pair of straight swelling quillons, three ring-guards fitted at the base with a pair of pierced plates, faceted plummet-shaped pommel, and spirally-fluted grip bound with plaited wire and 'Turk's heads'
96cm; 37 3/4in blade
Estimate: 1400-1800
181.    A RAPIER IN 17TH CENTURY STYLE, 19TH CENTURY
with broad double-edged blade decorated with a running wolf and the spurious date 1610, steel hilt of flattened bars with engraved rondel mouldings, fluted barrel-shaped pommel and wire-bound grip
80cm; 31 1/2in blade
Estimate: 200-300
182.    A RARE HUNGARIAN HUSSAR OFFICER'S SABRE, FIRST QUARTER OF THE 19TH CENTURY
in the 17th Century taste, with broad, curved blade cut with a broad long shallow fuller, engraved with pious inscriptions, the standing figure of the Virgin on one side and the Cross of Lorraine on the other, steel hilt comprising straight cross-piece with moulded bud-shaped terminals, decorated in silver with a bearded mask on one side and a stylised eagle displayed on the other, each within a framework of silver foliage (rubbed), and large horn grip decorated with pairs of chevrons and swelling towards the pommel (small age cracks, the base of the grip inlaid with a pair of small silver plaques, now missing)
73.5cm; 29in blade

The inscriptions read

'Maria Mater Dei Patrona Hungaria Subtum Bra Sid ium Confagio', 'In hoc Signa Vinces' and 'Deus exerci tuum pellator fortissime es to me cum'. Estimate: 700-900
183.    A SILVER-MOUNTED HUNTING SWORD CIRCA 1770-80
with curved blade double-edged towards the point, cut with a full length broad fuller and etched with scrollwork and trophies over the forte (worn), silver hilt comprising a pair of quillons with flattened globular terminals, spirally-carved green-stained swelling ivory grip, in its original silver-mounted tooled leather scabbard, with a ring for suspension
47.5cm; 18 3/4in

Estimate: 1000-1500
184.    A SCOTTISH DIRK, FIRST HALF OF THE 18TH CENTURY
with tapering single-edged blade cut with a series of very narrow grooves and with traces of a copper-lined mark on one side, wooden grip carved with traditional basket weave designs, retained by a steel collar at the base, and disc pommel (the steel parts pitted)
44cm; 17 3/8in
Estimate: 1500-2000
185.    A SCOTTISH SILVER-MOUNTED DIRK AND PLAID BROOCH, BY W. M. ANDERSON & SONS LTD, EDINBURGH SILVER HALLMARKS FOR 1948, MAKER'S MARK 'TE'
the dirk with polished blade formed with a scalloped back-edge and cut with a slender fuller on each face, hardwood grip carved with traditional basket weave designs, fitted with a silver ferrule engraved with panels of strapwork within a wrigglework frame at the front, and the pommel with silver claw mount set with a faceted citrine, in its original scabbard with silver mounts engraved en suite with the hilt, complete with its accompanying pieces, the brooch with matching ornament including claw mount with a further citrine
the dirk: 42.5cm; 16 3/4in

(2)
Estimate: 1200-1800
186.    A SCOTTISH DIRK, 20TH CENTURY
with polished scallop-backed blade, wooden hilt carved with traditional basket-weave designs and studded with white metal nails, the pommel fitted with a piece of foil-backed coloured glass retained by a white metal band decorated with thistle foliage, in its leather-covered wooden scabbard with white metal mounts, and complete with its accompanying pieces en suite with the dirk
44cm; 17 3/8in
Estimate: 400-500
187.    A BOWIE KNIFE BY JOSEPH RODGERS & SONS, CUTLERS TO THEIR MAJESTIES, NO. 6 NORFOLK STREET, SHEFFIELD, MID-19TH CENTURY
with signed blade formed with a clipped-back point (patinated), shaped German silver cross-piece, back-strap and pommel, and original natural staghorn grip-scales retained by four German silver rivets, in its original leather scabbard with German silver mounts (the leather crazed), with a loop for suspension, and in untouched condition throughout
34cm; 13 3/8in

Estimate: 800-1000
188.    A DECORATIVE DAGGER BY GEORGE WOSTENHOLM, SHEFFIELD, LATE 19TH CENTURY
with robust blade of diamond section, cut with a short fuller on each side, stamped with the maker's details 'G. Wostenholm & son, Washington Works, Sheffield' on one side and 'I*XL' on the other at the forte, brass hilt cast in relief, comprising an African Hunter holding a German silver spear and arrow forming the grip, the cross-piece formed as a pair of hound's heads, in its scabbard decorated with an eclectic blend of tribal and renaissance motifs
25.4cm; 10in

Estimate: 400-600
189.    A BOWIE KNIFE BY UNDERWOOD 56 HAYMARKET, LONDON, CIRCA 1870
with single-edged blade of polished steel formed with a clipped-back point, signed on one side at the forte beneath the mark 'VR' a crown between, German silver cross-piece, steel tang, and a pair of chequered hardwood grip-scales retained by six German silver rivets, in its leather scabbard incorporating a steel locking clip at the mouth
34cm; 13 1/2in
Estimate: 600-800
190.    A BOWIE KNIFE WITH ETCHED STEEL BLADE AND MOUNTS, MODERN
with robust blade formed with a clipped back blade and cut with a short fuller on each side, etched steel cross-piece and disc pommel, and banded wooden grip
30.5cm; 12in



Estimate: 100-150
191.    A GERMAN ETCHED AND GILT STATE HALBERD OF THE GUARD OF LUDWIG RUDOLPH, DUKE OF BRUNSWICK AND LÜNEBURG IN BLANKENBURG AND WOLFENBÜTTEL (1671-1735), DATED 1717
with central spike, etched with vertical arrangement of leaves rising from an etched decorative collar, large axe-blade with convex leading edge, etched with the crested mantled ducal arms supported by lions, large flat down-turned fluke etched and gilt with scrolling foliage and the centre etched with the mantled crowned ducal cypher above the date, etched tubular socket the surface ground etched in imitation of damascus pattern, on a faceted wooden haft
56.5cm; 22 1/4in head

Provenance

Schloss Blankenburg

The significance of the date 1717 on this group of halberds remains unclear. Ludwig Rudolph received the Earldom of Blankenburg am Harz in 1707. In complete violation of the rule of primogeniture the Earldom was raised to a Principality with all the rights of an Independant Sovereign State, in the centre of which Ludwig Rudolph created a lavish Court. In 1731, following the death of his brother, August Wilhelm, Ludwig Rudolph reunited Blankenburg and Wolfenbüttel and ruled them together briefly until 1735. The present halberd would have been made for the Court at Blankenburg. A number of these were sold Sotheby's Hanover October 2005, lots 773-777.

Estimate: 2000-3000
192.    TWO DECORATIVE TILTING LANCES, 19TH CENTURY
each fluted over the greater part of its forward portion, recessed grip encircled with rivets at each end, conical rear portion, fitted with a diamond-shaped iron head with moulded neck and painted gold
484cm; 190 1/2in and 362cm; 142 1/2in overall

(2)
Estimate: 300-400
193.    A GROUP OF SIXTEEN VARIOUS HAFTED WEAPONS, 19TH CENTURY AND LATER
including a flail, halberd and partisan in earlier style, each on its wooden haft

(16)
Estimate: 150-200
194.    A SPEAR, LATE 16TH/17TH CENTURY
with triangular blade stamped with a star-shaped mark on each side (pitted), tapering socket, on a later wooden haft fitted with a moulded brass collar; together with a halberd in Italian 16th century style, 19th century, on its wooden haft
the first 43.5cm; 17 1/8in head

(2)
Estimate: 300-400
195.    AN ETCHED PARTISAN IN 16TH CENTURY STYLE, 19TH CENTURY
with shaped central blade etched with a bold pattern of scrolling foliage, a pair of slender crescentic side lugs, on a wooden haft
64.5cm; 25 1/2in head


Estimate: 150-200
196.    A RUSSIAN MILITARY SPONTOON, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with shaped head etched with the crowned Imperial Double Eagle on each side above a vacant scroll, moulded at the base, straight cross-piece, and moulded faceted socket, on a wooden haft
39cm; 15 3/8in head
Estimate: 500-700
197.    TWO 1868 PATTERN LANCES
each with regulation steel head and shoe on a bamboo shaft with buff leather strap, leather grip (one missing its stitching) and later pendants (the steel parts patinated)
29cm; 11 1/2in head

(2)

Estimate: 200-300
198.    A RARE BRITISH CAVALRY TROOPER'S SWORD BY HARVEY, CIRCA 1755-60
with straight fullered blade double-edged towards the point, blunted ricasso retaining traces of the crowned cypher 'GR' and the maker's name (areas of pitting), robust steel hilt forged in one piece, comprising shallow bowl-guard rising to a broad triangular knuckle-guard, an additional bar front and back, and bun-shaped pommel, and the grip with an early leather binding
90cm; 35 1/2in blade

Another sword of this type is preserved in the National Army Museum, London. See L. Southwick 1982, p. 135, no. 135 and A. D. Darling 1969, p. 88.
Estimate: 300-400
199.    A RARE BRITISH BRASS BASKET-HILTED BACK SWORD, LATE 18TH/EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with straight fullered blade double-edged towards the point (the point rounded), etched and gilt with foliage, 'GR' crowned, trophies and the Royal arms on a blued panel at the forte (light wear and oxidation), signed on the back-edge 'J. J. Runkel, Solingen', brass basket-hilt including short globular quillon, basket-guard pierced with rectangular apertures (one bar cracked), spherical pommel and wooden grip
81.2cm; 32in blade

Estimate: 500-800
200.    A RARE 1798 PATTERN HIGHLAND OFFICER'S BROADSWORD
with broad blade of flattened-hexagonal section, cut with three short fullers and retaining traces of engraving on each side at the forte, regulation brass hilt involving an alternating arrangement of narrow and square panels carried by rounded bars (small cracks and minor losses), fluted bun-shaped pommel and original fishskin-covered grip, in its original leather-covered wooden scabbard (shrinkage) with steel mounts
83cm; 32 5/8in blade

See B. Robson 1996, p. 173 no. 161.

Estimate: 600-800
201.    A 1796 PATTERN INFANTRY OFFICER'S SWORD, PROBABLY FOR THE AMERICAN MARKET
with regulation blade etched blued and gilt with trophies and foliage over the lower half, hilt with folding shell-guard, original grip bound with silver wire, in its brass-mounted leather scabbard, and in good untouched condition
81cm; 31 7/8in blade
Estimate: 500-700
202.    A 1796 PATTERN INFANTRY OFFICER'S SWORD
with etched blued and gilt blade including the crowned Royal arms and Royal cypher (worn), regulation hilt (quillon missing), and wire-bound grip
80.5cm; 31 3/4in blade
Estimate: 200-300
203.    A VICTORIAN 1827 PATTERN RIFLE OFFICER'S SWORD BY HAWKES & CO, LONDON, NO. 1357
with etched blade, nickel-plated hilt, leather sword knot, in its leather-covered regulation scabbard, complete with its sword cover and dress scabbard (worn)
82cm; 32 1/4in blade
Estimate: 150-200
204.    A MAMELUKE-HILTED OFFICER'S SWORD, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
based on the 1796 light cavalry pattern, with regulation blade, gilt-brass hilt cast in low relief, including cross-piece with button terminals, a pair of ivory grip-scales retained by pairs of foliate washers on each side, in its regulation silver-plated steel scabbard decorated over its full surface with scrolling flowers and foliage
83.8cm; 33in blade
Estimate: 500-700
205.    A MAMELUKE-HILTED GENERAL OFFICER'S SWORD BY JOHNSTON, NO.8 NEWCASTLE STREET, STRAND, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
with broad kilig blade formed with a double-edged point, engraved gilt-brass hilt of characteristic form including a pair of quillons with bud-shaped terminals, horn grip-scales, in its original fishskin-covered wooden scabbard (small losses) with engraved gilt-brass mounts including locket with the maker's details, chape decorated with neoclassical ornament on the front, laurel fronds, further foliage and a sword of justice on the reverse and four large loops for suspension
64.8cm; 25 1/2in blade

Joshua Johnston and his son, of the same name, are recorded at Newcastle Street circa 1790-1839. See L. Southwick 2001, pp.152-3. It is likely that the blade of this sword came from the arsenal in Cairo, in the early 19th Century.
Estimate: 1500-2000
206.    A MAMELUKE-HILTED SWORD RETAILED BY THE ARMY & NAVY CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY, POST 1902
with curved etched blade, brass hilt cast in low relief, ivorine grips, in its brass scabbard with two suspension loops
83.5cm; 32 7/8in
Estimate: 250-300
207.    AN UNUSUAL SWORD OF REGULATION TYPE BY W.L & H. SARGENT, MID-19TH CENTURY
with curved single-edged blade formed with a hatchet point, stamped 'best cast steel' and with the maker's name on the back-edge, gilt-brass gothic hilt incorporating an oval filled with an expanded flowerhead, fishskin-covered grip, in its steel scabbard
82.5cm; 32 1/2in blade

William Lucas Sargant is recorded at Edmund Street, Birmingham, circa 1852-65.
Estimate: 400-600
208.    A POST 1902 NAVAL OFFICER'S SWORD
with etched blade, regulation brass hilt with folding side-guard (loose), fishskin-covered grip (wire binding missing), in its regulation brass-mounted leather scabbard (worn)
79.2cm; 31 1/4in blade

Estimate: 200-300
209.    A POST 1902 NAVAL OFFICER'S SWORD BY S. W. SILVER & CO., LONDON AND PORTSMOUTH
with etched blade decorated with the crowned Royal arms and a fouled anchor, regulation hilt with folding side-guard engraved with the owner's name 'J. J. G. Fraser, R. N.', sharkskin-covered grip, in its scabbard
79.5cm; 31 3/8in blade
Estimate: 200-300
210.    A BAVARIAN EPEE BY REISS, MUNICH, CIRCA 1848-64
with slender blade of flattened-hexagonal section, etched blued and gilt over the lower portion (light wear), gilt-brass hilt of standard pattern, including down-turned shell cast with a lion, mother-of-pearl grip-scales, applied on the outer face with arms of Bavaria and the crowned letter M, in its brass-mounted leather scabbard
77cm; 30 3/8in blade


Estimate: 200-300
211.    A GEORGE V 1897 PATTERN INFANTRY OFFICER'S SWORD; A GERMAN SWORD, EARLY 20TH CENTURY; A COPY OF A 1912 PATTERN CAVALRY SWORD; AND A CHASSEPOT BAYONET, DATED 1872
the first with etched blade, in its scabbard, the second with stirrup hilt incorporating lion's head pommel, in its scabbard, the third in its scabbard, the fourth in its scabbard (incomplete, steel parts pitted)
the first: 82.5cm; 32 1/2in blade

(4)
Estimate: 200-300
212.    TWO BRITISH 1907 SECOND PATTERN BAYONETS, BY WILKINSON
each in its scabbard and in good condition throughout
55.4cm; 21 3/4in

(2)
Estimate: 40-60
213.    A DISPLAY OF TEN PAIRS OF SPURS, 19TH CENTURY
of nickel and brass on their walnut stand incorporating a very narrow drawer; together with two pairs of Georgian steel spurs, one stamped Maxwell 161 Piccadilly; four further pairs of spurs and a single decorated brass spur

(34)
Estimate: 150-200
214.    A COMPREHENSIVE FRAMED AND GLAZED DISPLAY OF WORLD WAR I CAP BADGES, SHOULDER TAGS, BUTTONS, POSTCARDS, AND DEACTIVATED BULLETS, MAINLY BRITISH
arranged on a blue baize background

(approx 300 pieces)
Estimate: 1200-1800
215.    A PAIR OF PISTOL HOLSTERS OF REGULATION TYPE, LATE 18TH/EARLY 19TH CENTURY
each with leather body (patches of crazing), domed wooden basal finial bound by a copper band, bearskin-covered flap, retained by a leather strap with a buckle to a piece of backing leather fitted with a pair of loops for suspension
33cm; 13in

(2) Estimate: 500-700
216.    AN ENGLISH SMALL-SWORD WITH CUT-STEEL HILT BY THOMAS GRAY, SACKVILLE STREET, LONDON, LATE 18TH CENTURY, THE HILT PROBABLY BY MATTHEW BOULTON
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with scrolls and trophies on a blued panel at the forte, burnished steel hilt comprising pierced oval guard formed with a central fluted flowerhead, forward-canted quillon, knuckle-guard, urn-shaped pommel and grip, decorated throughout with faceted beads of differing size throughout (small losses), in its original scabbard (later painted finish) with steel mounts including signed locket
79.8cm; 31 3/8in blade

The connection between Matthew Boulton and Thomas Gray is well documented. The hilt of the present sword has a number of elements that are illustrated in Boulton's pattern sheet datable to the 1780s. Gray worked at Sackville Street circa 1749-1820. He was a prominent Royal retail jeweller, cutler and goldsmith. He was immortalized in Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility as the Gray's of Sackville Street where the Miss Dashwoods went to negotiate an exchange for a few old-fashioned jewels of their mother (Chapter XXXIII). See. L. Southwick 2001 p. 126 and also the same author 2009, pp.231-233.

Estimate: 500-700
217.    A FINE ENGLISH SMALL-SWORD WITH CUT-STEEL HILT, CIRCA 1800, POSSIBLY BY MATTHEW BOULTON
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with trophies on a blued panel over the forte (bluing worn), burnished steel beadwork hilt, comprising oval shell-guard, quillon, knuckle-guard, a pair of delicate pas d'âne, ovoid pommel and swelling grip, decorated throughout with beaded frames filled with faceted beads of differing size and remaining in fine condition (the pommel with expert restorations), in its steel mounted scabbard (later painted finish)
78.4cm; 30 78/8in blade

For the most recent and detailed discussion of Matthew Boulton's work and his supply of fine sword hilts to the London retail trade see L. Southwick 2009, pp. 225-250.

Estimate: 1500-2000
218.    AN ENGLISH SMALL-SWORD WITH CUT-STEEL HILT, CIRCA 1800
with continental hollow-triangular blade sparsely etched with foliage and the bladesmith's initials 'A.K.' at the forte, burnished steel hilt including oval shell-guard, flattened globular quillon, knuckle-guard, and ovoid pommel decorated throughout with faceted beads of differing size, and original grip bound with a spiralling pattern of faceted beads en suite with the hilt, in its scabbard with steel mounts including locket inscribed 'Armfields Manufactory Cross St.'
83.5cm; 32 7/8in blade

Two cutlers of this name are recorded in Birmingham during this period.
Estimate: 1000-1500
219.    A FINE ENGLISH SMALL-SWORD WITH SILVER-GILT HILT, LONDON SILVER HALLMARKS FOR 1793, MAKER'S MARK OF CORNELIUS BLAND
with French blade of hollow-triangular section, etched and gilt with trophies, foliage and figures on a blued ground over almost its entire length, inscribed by the bladesmith 'Aubry Md Fourbisseur Pont St Michel au Roy de France', silver-gilt hilt cast and chased in low relief, comprising oval shell-guard decorated with a punched and engraved flowerhead in the centre and a border of laurel foliage chased in low relief against a punched ground on the inner face, short quillon with flattened globular terminal engraved with an expanded flowerhead, knuckle-guard chased en suite with the guard, a pair of slender pas d'âne, flattened ovoid pommel and solid grip each chased en suite, in its original vellum-covered wooden scabbard with silver mounts engraved with flowerheads matching the hilt, two rings for suspension, and the locket engraved 'Donné par la Martinique'
82.4cm; 32 1/2in blade

A sword with a hilt of almost identical design by the same maker is illustrated in L. Southwick 1982, no. 217. Cornelius Bland (1748-94) is known to have made a number of fine presentation swords including one with a gold and enamelled hilt presented by the people of the island of Tobago to Major General Cornelius Cuyler in honour of his capturing the island from the French. See L. Southwick 2001, pp.50-51.

Estimate: 4000-6000
220.    A FINE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD, CIRCA 1770
with hollow-triangular blade, etched and gilt over the greater part of its length with scrolls, classical figures and trophies on a blued panel (areas of light wear), signed 'Leiger Md Fourbisseur rue Coqulliere et Celle Des Vieux Augustin a Paris' on one side of the forte and decorated with a strapwork panel on the other, steel hilt finely chiselled against a gilt fishroe ground with a very delicate pattern of scrolls terminating in scaly marine monsters adjacent to the blade and the quillon-block on the respective faces, enriched with rococo garlands and the borders with masks issuant with further scrolls, the inner face fitted with two finely chased gold plaques depicting a pair of tigers and a pair of lions, the outer face with two burnished steel ovals (previously fitted with plaques), globular quillon chiselled as a monster engorged on a gilt ball, quillon-block chased with trophies-of-hunting, a pair of pas d'âne with monsterhead finials, knuckle-guard decorated with circular frames filled with expanded flowerheads, tall globular pommel formed as a close helmet with barred visor, chiselled over the skull with dragons and foliage, and the grip with a binding of plaited silver wire, ribband and 'Turk's heads', in its original scabbard with steel locket chiselled with scrolls and foliage centring on a mask en suite with the hilt (middle band missing)
78.7cm; 31in blade
Estimate: 3000-4000
221.    A FRENCH SMALL-SWORD WITH FINELY CHISELLED AND GILT HILT, CIRCA 1760
with contemporary hollow-triangular blade, associated blade of flattened-hexagonal section, steel hilt finely chiselled in low relief, comprising double shell-guard decorated with portrait ovals enclosed by rococo foliage and with differing trophies-of-hunting in each corner, the borders enclosed by rococo scrolls and all against a finely punched gilt fishroe ground, globular quillon, a pair of pas d'âne decorated with foliage, quillon-block, knuckle-guard and ovoid pommel all finely chiselled and gilt en suite with the shell, and the grip a contemporary binding of plaited silver wire and ribband, perhaps the original
78.7cm; 31in blade

The medallions include portraits of Henri IV, Louis XIII, XIV and XVI and would suggest that this was made for presentation to a member of the court.
Estimate: 1000-1500
222.    A FINE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD, CIRCA 1780
with associated blade of flattened-hexagonal section, etched and gilt with a cabbalistic inscription on a blued panel at the forte (faded) on each side, steel hilt finely chiselled in low relief, comprising double shell-guard decorated with an oval filled with differing trophies, one including a fleur-de-lys, each within a burnished steel frame beneath a delicate garland of rococo flowers and with a panel of fine trellis on each side, all against a very finely punched and gilt ground, globular quillon, quillon-block, a pair of pas d'âne, knuckle-guard and tall ovoid pommel all finely chiselled and gilt en suite, and the grip with a later binding of gilt wire and ribband
78cm; 30 3/4in blade
Estimate: 3000-4000
223.    A FINE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD, CIRCA 1760
with tapering hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with scrollwork on a blued panel, signed in full on a long gilt panel twice at the forte, ' Ravoisié Marchand Fourbiseur du Roy au Duc de Bourgoyne Pont St Michel à Paris', within a scrollwork frame, steel hilt finely chiselled in low relief, comprising double shell-guard decorated with differing trophies on each side, including astronomical instruments, a quiver, and a classical torso on the outer face all within a scrollwork frame enriched with rococo flowers and foliage, the inner face with atrophied designs of trophies including a squirrel eating berries, all enriched with further scrolls and flowers and vine foliage and grapes, globular quillon, quillon-block decorated with trophies and a cannon on one side, a pair of pas d'âne, knuckle-guard and globular pommel all decorated en suite, all against a finely gilt fishroe ground, and the grip bound with plaited wire and 'Turk's heads', perhaps the original
86.3cm; 34in blade
Estimate: 1500-2000
224.    A SPANISH SILVER-MOUNTED DAGGER, 19TH CENTURY
with double-edged fullered blade of flattened-diamond section, the central fuller pierced with a series of slots and circles, silver-gilt hilt including a pair of down-curved quillons decorated with scrolls and an owl in the centre on each side, and nielloed grip decorated with foliage and a trellis pattern filled with crosses, in its fabric-covered wooden scabbard with silver mounts en suite with the hilt
25cm; 9 7/8in

Estimate: 800-1000
225.    A FINE AND RARE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD WITH PASTE-SET SILVER-GILT HILT, CIRCA 1780
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with trophies and foliage on a blued ground at the forte, silver-gilt hilt comprising oval shell-guard, quillon, a pair of pas d'âne, knuckle-guard, urn-shaped pommel and swelling grip, decorated throughout with faceted pastes of differing size arranged as flowers and foliage and in ovals over the grip
82cm; 32 1/4in blade

A detached hilt almost certainly from the same workshop is preserved in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. See J. F. Hayward 1963, plate 36 (b).


Estimate: 5000-7000
226.    A VERY FINE AND RARE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD WITH PASTE-SET SILVER-GILT HILT, CIRCA 1780
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with foliage on a blued panel at the forte, silver hilt cast and chased in low relief, comprising oval shell-guard pierced with a symmetrical arrangement of rococo flowers within a frame of laurel, flattened globular quillon, knuckle-guard, a pair of pas d'âne, ovoid pommel, threaded button and swelling grip, decorated throughout with faceted pastes in raised settings, in linear arrangements and as rococo flowers within oval frames, and enriched with ropework and laurel
80.6cm; 31 3/4in blade

A sword with a very similar hilt and possibly from the same workshop is preserved in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, inv. no. 26.145.302. See B. Dean 1929, plate LXXV, no. 90.
Estimate: 4000-6000
227.    A FINE AND RARE SMALL-SWORD WITH PASTE-SET SILVER-GILT HILT, CIRCA 1790, PROBABLY FRENCH
with two-stage blade of flattened-hexagonal section for the greater part of its length, etched and gilt on each side with foliage on a blued panel over the lower portion and the inscription 'Viva Carlus IV Rey de Las Espanas' on one side, silver gilt hilt cast in low relief, comprising oval shell-guard, flattened globular quillon, knuckle-guard, a pair of pas d'âne, ovoid pommel, threaded button, and swelling grip, decorated throughout with flowers, foliage and spiralling patterns of faceted pastes, and a crown on each side of the quillon block (minor restorations), and all against a finely punched ground engraved foliage
76.2cm; 30in blade

Provenance

Museo Armeria de D Jose Estruch Y Cumella, Barcelona, illustrated plate CXXXXVII, no. 82 in the 1896 catalogue.

The inscription on the blade and the crown on the quillon-block would suggest that this sword may have been made for a prominent member of the court of Charles IV, King of Spain (1748-1819, ruled 1788-1808).
Estimate: 2000-3000
228.    A FINE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD WITH SILVER-GILT HILT, PARIS CHARGE AND DISCHARGE MARK FOR 1775-81, MAISON COMMUNE MARK FOR 1775
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt over the greater part of its surface with fleur-de-lys on two sides and with foliage, a pistol and trophies-of-arms on the other, inscribed 'De la manufacture de la Marque au Raisin fait a Solingen' at the forte, silver hilt cast and chased en rocaille in low relief, including double shell-guard with four medallions decorated with an artilleryman loading and igniting a cannon, a pair of combatants holding a wreath, and a victorious fighter, globular quillon and knuckle-guard decorated with foliage, ovoid pommel decorated en suite and with a central medallion with a drummer on the reverse and a standing warrior on the front, and solid grip with a central figurative medallion on each side, in its scabbard with silver-gilt mounts (scabbard covering replaced), decorated en suite with the hilt (middle bands missing, covering replaced), and the locket inscribed 'Devaux M. Fourbisser, Place des Trois Marie'
80.3cm; 31 5/8in blade

Deveaux is recorded as a Maître Fourbisseur in Paris 1757-1818.

Estimate: 3500-4500
229.    A FINE FRENCH SMALL-SWORD, CIRCA 1780
with hollow-triangular blade etched and gilt with scrollwork, foliage, a cherubic mask, a Classical figure, probably Mutius Scaevola, and the inscription 'un me fecit', all on a blued panel, steel hilt finely chiselled in low relief, comprising double shell-guard decorated on each side with ovals filled with differing trophies-of-arms, surrounded by scrolls and garlands against a finely punched and gilt fishroe ground with small areas of delicate trellis, short globular quillon, knuckle-guard, a pair of pas d'âne, and ovoid pommel, all decorated en suite with the shell, and the grip finely rebound with plaited wire, ribband and 'Turk's heads', in a contemporary scabbard (later covering), and steel locket and chape each chiselled and gilt with scrolls against a gilt fishroe ground including a classical figure on the locket
83.5cm; 32 7/8in blade
Estimate: 2000-3000
230.    A VERY FINE SMALL-SWORD WITH SILVER-GILT AND ENAMELLED HILT PRESENTED BY THE UNDERWRITERS OF THE PRINCESS CHARLOTTE EAST INDIAMAN TO CAPTAIN GOOCH, LONDON SILVER HALLMARKS FOR 1796-97, MAKER'S MARK OF JAMES MORRISET
with tapering blade of hollow-triangular section, etched with scrollwork and retaining traces of blue and gilt, silver-gilt hilt cast and chased in low relief, comprising oval shell-guard inscribed 'Presented by the Underwriters of the Princess Charlotte East Indn. to Captain Gooch', on the underside and with a laurel border, the inside of the guard with oak foliage and two laurel ovals filled with the enamelled crest of the East India Company and the owner respectively, short scrolling quillon, knuckle-guard decorated with laurel centring on a fouled anchor on each side, oval pommel decorated en suite and inset with an enamelled plaque front and back decorated with differing trophies-of-arms in polychrome enamel against a blue ground, including a compass on the front and a globe on the back, the arms of the hilt formed as small wreaths (the enamel with expert restorations), and silver-gilt grip chased with swags and an oval frame of foliage front and back, each filled with an enamelled plaque decorated with further maritime trophies
83cm; 32 5/8in blade

George Gooch (1761-1832) was born in Great Yarmouth. He entered the East India Company's Maritime Service in 1780, after a decade of apprenticeship and service in trading vessels and on a privateer. After promotion through the ranks of Mate, his first command was the SIR STEPHEN LUSHINGTON in 1796, a ship of which he was captain for four voyages 1796-1803. Subsequently, he shared the ownership of several East Indiamen, was an Elder of Trinity House, owned property throughout England and Wales and was buried in St Peter in Thanet, Kent, where his monumental inscription describes him as 'esteemed in public, beloved in private'.

The life of the East Indiaman PRINCESS CHARLOTTE is summarised in Farrington's Catalogue... (1999). Launched in 1795, weighing 610 tons, she made four voyages before being captured by a French frigate in Vizagapatam Roads on 18th September 1804. She was built and three-quarters owned by Peter Everitt Mestaer, who also owned a majority share (four-sevenths) in Gooch's first command, the SIR STEPHEN LUSHINGTON. Mestaer was an important Rotherhithe ship-builder who part-owned several East Indiamen, some of which his firm had built, from the 1790s until the early nineteenth century: he had close personal and business links with George Gooch, who was an executor of his will (PROB 11/1613) in 1819.


1431 WORD COUNT IN TOTAL. REMAINDER TO BE SUPPLIED AS WORD DOCUMENT
MANOR DO NOT DELETE THIS. WE NEED TO BE REMINDED!
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Estimate: 35000-50000
231.    A composite North European armour, first half of the 17th Century and later
comprising cuirassier helmet with two-piece fluted skull pierced by a ring finial on a star-shaped washer (incomplete), pivoting peak fitted with later visor and a single neck lame front and rear, gorget formed of a single deep plate front and rear, breastplate decorated with pairs of incised lines and carrying a pair of tassets of seven lames, backplate fitted with a culet of five lames, a pair of full arm-defences including large pauldrons and a pair of fingered gauntlets, a pair of full leg-defences including articulated cuisses with winged poleyns and articulated sabatons, on a wooden stand

Estimate: 5000-7000
232.    A NORTH EUROPEAN THREE-QUARTER CUIRASSIER ARMOUR, 17TH CENTURY
comprising close helmet with two-piece skull joined at a low comb, fitted with visor bevor and upper bevor joined by common pivots, the bevor pierced with a series of circular breathes on the right, neck-guard formed of two broad lames at the front (the rear two missing) cuirass formed of a heavy breastplate with vestigial peascod, flanged outwards at the base and carrying a pair of tassets of thirteen and fourteen lames on the left and right respectively, a pair of knee-defences each of three lames, the uppermost with a winged poleyn, a pair of full arm-defences, a pair of gauntlets (fingers missing) decorated throughout with pairs of incised lines around the principal borders and studded with domed rivets, and with later etched bands filled with trophies-of-arms on a stippled ground within ropework frames in the so-called pisan manner (worn small areas of lamination, minor holes and disarticulated)

Estimate: 15000-25000
233.    A FULL ARMOUR FOR THE TILT IN THE MANNER OF ANTON PEFFENHAUSER OF AUGSBURG, 20TH CENTURY
of bright steel, comprising close helmet, reinforcing piece on the left extending over the upper portion of the chest, gorget, cuirass, the breast fitted with lance-rest on the right and targe on the left, a pair of full arm defences, fingered gauntlets, a pair of full leg defences including tassets embossed with a roped medial ridge, on a wooden stand and complete with a portion of a lance fitted with vamplate in contemporary style



Estimate: 5000-7000
234.    A HAND PAVISE FOR COMBAT ON FOOT IN SOUTH GERMAN LATE 15TH/EARLY 16TH CENTURY STYLE, LATE 18TH/EARLY 19TH CENTURY
of sub rectangular outline, with rounded corners, rising to a central cusp at its upper edge, formed with a broad medial gutter extending over its full height, covered over almost its entire surface with skin, the outer face applied with gesso, painted with a large sable eagle displayed charged with a shield fussily on its chest, all on an ochre ground enriched with lighter ochre pellets, a pair of ochre lines framing the main edges, and the top painted with a red border (small losses, the upper and lower edges each with very small early working repairs), the inner face left natural and retaining its original four iron staples fitted with two pairs of twisted leather enarmes
81.2cm; 32in high

A sample of the skin from the inside has been dated to 26 years either side of 1793. The arms are those of the Bavarian town of Schongau, on the southern Danube. Another example from this group was formerly in the Rothschild Collection and another was in the Zschille Collection, no. 638.

Estimate: 4000-6000
235.    A GROUP OF VARIOUS SPURS, ROMAN TO 17TH CENTURY
in excavated condition, the Roman spur a fragment of bronze; a prick spur, 11th Century, with moulded pyramidal prick; a 12th Century spur, the prick incorporating a rondel; a 14th Century rowel spur; a French rowel spur, 17th Century, with moulded neck, five-pointed star and retaining its original buckles; a 15th Century rowel spur and seventeen further rowel spurs

(27)
Estimate: 200-300
236.    A LARGE STIRRUP IN GERMAN 16TH CENTURY STYLE, 20TH CENTURY, TWO PAIRS OF BRASS STIRRUPS, 18TH CENTURY AND FIVE FRENCH REGULATION CAGE STIRRUPS, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
the first pair formed of writhen bars chiselled with scale pattern and incorporating a loop for suspension; the second pair cast and chased with lion masks; the regulation stirrups of characteristic form and the last with steel tread formed of writhen iron bars and brass side panels rising to a loop for suspension

(10)
Estimate: 300-500
237.    A GROUP OF THREE EUROPEAN SPURS, 14TH, 15TH, 17TH CENTURIES AND TWO HORSE PICKS, 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES
the first in excavated condition, with arched slotted heel band with pierced figure-of-eight-shaped terminals, tapering neck, and star-shaped rowel of six spikes; the second in excavated condition, with arched heel band with figure-of-eight-shaped terminals (one chipped), long neck, and star shaped rowel of eight spikes, the third of brass, with arched heel band retaining an original buckle on one side, short neck, star-shaped rowel of five points, and chiselled throughout with scale ornament. The first pick of brass fitted with near rectangular steel tip, and brass grip formed with large pierced spherical terminals; and the second of iron, the finial formed of a foot with a robust iron pick beneath, and turned wooden handle
the first: 13cm; 5 1/8in

(5)
Estimate: 350-450
238.    A NORTH ITALIAN ETCHED COUTER, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 16TH CENTURY
formed in one piece, shaped to the point of the elbow (holed), embossed with a roped medial ridge accompanied by two further roped ridges, etched with a bold pattern of scrolling foliage on the main surface, recessed border etched with scrolling foliage accompanied by engrailed patterns, and turned roped edge (worn)
Estimate: 400-600
239.    A PAIR OF GILT BRASS ROWEL SPURS
with moulded ankle bands, each retaining its original buckle and leather strap, moulded necks and petal-shaped rowel, retaining some original gilding throughout
Estimate: 100-150
240.    A CLOSE HELMET IN LATE 16TH CENTURY STYLE, MODERN
with two-piece skull joined at a roped comb, fitted at the nape with a plume-holder and rear neck-guard of two lames, visor pierced with two vision slits, upper and lower bevor, the former pierced with a circular arrangement of breathes on the right and a series of circular and slotted breathes on the left, the latter shaped for the chin, drawn-out at the base to form a neck-guard of two lames, and the lower lame decorated with a roped inward turn accompanied by a recessed border
31cm; 12 1/4in high

Estimate: 350-450
241.    A GROUP OF ELEVEN VARIOUS HORSE BITS, 10TH/7TH CENTURY BC TO EARLY 17TH CENTURY
in excavated condition, the first probably Mesopotamian, comprising two moulded side bars, each incorporating a loop fitted with a chain cast with raised nodules; one Roman iron bit; two Celtic iron bits; three medieval snaffle bits; four further bits; a large steel headband and a single stirrup

(12)
Estimate: 300-400
242.    A HELM IN 14TH CENTURY STYLE AND TWO MORIONS IN EARLY 17TH CENTURY STYLE, 20TH CENTURY
the first formed of seven riveted plates, the lower front portion hinged and fitted with two reinforcing plates; the second of so-called Spanish form, with two-piece skull encircled with steel rivets on brass rosette washers, and the third formed in two pieces joined by a tall comb, embossed on each face with a semi-circular panel (pitted throughout)
the first: 36cm; 14 1/4in high

(3)
Estimate: 400-600
243.    A MINIATURE ARMOUR, IN LATE 15TH/16TH CENTURY STYLE
including helmet with stylised sparrow's-beak visor and fingered gauntlets, holding a mace, on a wooden stand
51cm; 20in high
Estimate: 400-500
244.    A MINIATURE ARMOUR, IN LATE 15TH/16TH CENTURY STYLE
on a wooden stand, complete with a halberd
52.5cm; 20 5/8in high

Estimate: 400-500
245.    VAUBAN (1633-1707), De L'Attaque et de la Defense des Places: The Hague 1737. Quarto (270 x 220mm). Thirty-five folding out engraved plates and diagrams, contemporary leather binding (worn)

Estimate: 300-500
246.    ASHDOWN, Charles Henry. British and Foreign Arms & Armour. 1909, 2-page autograph letter from the author loosely-inserted; HEWITT, John. Ancient Armour and Weapons in Europe. 1855; ASHDOWN, C.H. Armour & Weapons in the Middle Ages. 1925; DEMMIN, Auguste. An Illustrated History of Arms and Armour. 1877; BOUTELL, Charles. Arms and Armour in Antiquity and the Middle Ages. 1874. BLACKMORE, Howard L. British Military Firearms 1650-1850. 1961; HASWELL MILLER, A.E. & N.P. DAWNAY. Military Drawings and Paintings in the Collection of Her Majesty the Queen … Volume One. Plates. 1970; MOLLO, John. Military Fashion. 1972; WOOD, Stephen. The Scottish Soldier. 1987, signed by the author. With 18 others of related interest. CARTER, Thomas. Medals of the British Army, and how they were won ... The Crimean Campaign … Egypt, Peninsula, Waterloo, and South Africa … India, China, Etc. London: Groombridge, 1861. 3 volumes in one, 8vo. Half title, 17 hand-coloured plates of medals (first plate creased, one plate detaching). Contemporary red half calf gilt (extremities lightly rubbed). Provenance: S. John Tombs (armorial bookplate). GEORGE, J.N. English Pistols and Revolvers. 1938; GEORGE, J.N. English Guns and Rifles. 1947; ATKINSON, John A. Duelling Pistols. 1964; ATKINSON, John A. The British Duelling Pistol. 1978; NEIL, W. Keith & D.H.L. BACK. British Gunmakers. Their Trade Cards, Cases & Equipment 1760-1860. 1980; COOPER, John S. For Commonwealth and Crown. English Gunmakers of the Seventeenth Century. 1993; DICKENS, Bernard. "M.B." - The Gunmaker's Silversmith. 1998. ONE OF 30 COPIES, FOR PRESENTATION TO R. WIGINGTON, signed by the author

(35)
Estimate: 250-350
247.    DIROM, Alexander (1757-1830). A Narrative of the Campaign in India which terminated the war with Tippoo Sultan in 1792. With maps and plans illustrative of the subject, and a view of Seringapatam. London: W. Bulmer, 1793. Quarto (260 x 205mm). Engraved frontispiece, plate, 6 maps and plans, all but one folding, engraved plate of Tippoo Sultan's Great Seal (frontispiece cropped, frontispiece and title browned and spotted, some spotting and browning throughout, some mainly marginal staining). 19th-century green half calf gilt by Higginbotham & Co. of Madras (rather worn, lower cover detached). Provenance: Palace Library, Mysore (stamp on front free endpaper); early signature erased from title with some thinning of paper; some pencil marginalia and annotation. FIRST EDITION. INDIA - MARQUIS CURZON OF KEDLESTON. British Government in India. The Story of the Viceroys and Government Houses. London: Cassell, 1925. 2 volumes, quarto (317 x 270mm). Half titles, photogravure frontispiece portraits, half tone plates (some spotting and staining throughout). Original blue half morocco gilt, top edges gilt, others uncut (extremities rubbed). NUMBER 60 OF 500 "EDITION DE LUXE" COPIES. With 3 other works on India in 4 volumes including James Grant's Cassell's Illustrated History of India (London, [c.1880], 2 vols.) and The Historical Record of the Imperial Visit to India 1911 (London, John Murray, 1914, publisher's presentation copy, blindstamped "With Mr Murray's Compliments").
MUNRO, Innes (d.1827). A Narrative of the Military Operations, on the Coromandel Coast, against the combined forces of the French, Dutch, and Hyder Ally Cawn. London: for the Author, 1789. Quarto (266 x 212mm). Additional title with engraved vignette, folding engraved plans (additional title detached and stained, some mainly marginal worming, spotting and staining, some offsetting). 19th-century half library calf (some staining, a few wormholes).

(9)
Estimate: 350-450
248.    ELGOOD, Robert (editor). Islamic Arms and Armour. 1979, London, inscribed by the author, cloth boards, original dust cover and slip case
Estimate: 200-300
249.    HOLMES, Richard R. Naval & Military Trophies & Personal Relics of British Heroes. London: John C. Nimmo, 1896. Folio (398 x 300mm). Half title, title printed in red and black, 36 chromolithographed plates by William Gibb. Original red pictorial cloth gilt, gilt edges (rebacked preserving original spine). OWEN, C. H. & T. L. DAMES. Elementary Lectures on Artillery, Prepared for the Use of the Gentlemen Cadets of the Royal Military Academy. Woolwich: Royal Artillery Institution, 1860. Quarto (280 x 212mm). Plates, some folding, some with hand-colouring, tables (several plates lacking). Contemporary half roan (rubbed). Provenance: Andrew Noble (armorial bookplate and pencil signature on title, "Capt. Noble").

(2)
Estimate: 50-80
250.    SALE CATALOGUES - Bank House, Wellesbourne. 1940; Sheffield Park, 1971; The Green Collection. 1976 (2 copies); Europaische Schmiedekunst. Part III. 1981; The Hever Castle Collection … Volume One. Arms and Armour. 1983; Powerscourt, Eniskerry. 1984; A Cabinet of Curiosities: the Property of The Lord McAlpine of West Green. 1994. With Wallis & Wallis Centenary. Some of the Best and Most Interesting. [n.d.]. SEITZ, Heribert. Ein Waffenhistorisches Handbuch. Blankwaffen I [II]. 1965-68. 2 vols; OAKESHOTT, R. Ewart. The Sword in the Age of Chivalry. 1964; OAKESHOTT, R. Ewart. The Archaeology of Weapons. 1960; NORMAN, A.V.B. The Rapier and Small-Sword 1460-1820. 1980. WARING, J.B. Masterpieces of Industrial Art & Sculpture at the International Exhibition, 1862 … Chromo-Lithographed by and under the Direction of W. R. Tymms, A. Warren, and G. Macculloch, from photographs supplied by the London Photographic and Stereoscopic Company, taken exclusively for this work by Stephen Thompson. London: Day & Son, 1863. Volumes I - II only (of 3). Folio (422 x 290mm). Additional chromolithographed titles, chromolithographed and tinted plates. Original reverse calf elaborately decorated in gilt, gilt edges (rubbed). With J.B. Waring's Art Treasures of the United Kingdom from the Art Treasures Exhibition, Manchester … chromo lithographed by F. Bedford … with essays by Owen Jones, Digby Wyatt [etc] (London, 1858), The Art Journal. Illustrated Catalogue. The Industry of All Nations 1851 (London, [1852]) and Tallis's History and Description of the Crystal Palace, and the Exhibition of the World's Industry in 1851 (London, [n.d.], vols. I and III only).

(qty)
Estimate: 300-500
251.    CHRISTIE'S ARMS AND ARMOUR, MILITARIA AND SPORTING GUN AUCTION CATALOGUES

including sales in London, Geneva, New York and Melbourne during the period 1966-2008, including the collections of McDonald-Peattie, J. F. R. Winsbury (the second and final part), Harold L. Peterson, Red Hackle Whiskey, Alber J. Weatherhead III, A. C. C. Parker (Part 1), J. C. L. Knapton, The Armoury of Their Serene Highnesses the Princes zu Salm-Reifferscheidt-Dyck (Part 2), Eugene Nielson, and R. T. Gwynn

A full listing is available on request

(87)

Estimate: 400-600
252.    SOTHEBY'S ARMS AND ARMOUR, MILITARIA AND SPORTING GUN AUCTION CATALOGUES

including sales in London, Florence, Los Angeles, Johannesburg, Monte Carlo, Zurich, Sussex and New York during the period 1970-2005, including the collections of William Goodwin Renwick (parts I-IV & VII-X), John A. Williams, A. L. Jackson, John F. Hayward, Visser (two parts), and Alexander Davison

A full listing is available on request

(147)
Estimate: 400-600
253.    Sold by order of the administrators of Nobel Enterprises Ltd

ERIK LINDBERG ( SWEDISH 1873-1966): ALFRED NOBEL
a patinated bronze bust on a square base, engraved Erik Lindberg 1910 and with foundry stamp 'Herman Bergman Fud Stockholm 1913'

102.3cm; 40 1/4in high

The present bust is one of two cast at the Herman Bergman foundry, the other being on display at the Nobel prize ceremonies in Stockholm.

Alfred Bernhard Nobel (1833-1896) was born in Stockholm and is most famous for his pioneering work with explosives. He studied nitro-glycerine and found that when it was incorporated within an inert and absorbent substance like kieselguhr it became safer and thus more convenient to manipulate. This was patented in 1862 as dynamite. Other patents followed including gelignite or blasting gelatine amongst others. Nobel amassed an immense fortune and the bulk of this was left in trust after his death for the establishment of five prizes in the fields of physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature and peace. The distribution of prizes was begun on the 10th of December 1901, the anniversary of Nobel's death. The only individual to receive prizes in more than one section has been Mme Marie Curie who was honoured in both physics and chemistry.

Erik Lindberg was a medallist and sculptor who produced a number of medals for the Nobel prize and other institutions. In his lifetime he was described as 'a very able and clever artist, as shown in the execution of various medals which show a rare ability not only in regard to composition and artistic workmanship but also in the delicacy of expression and feeling of form in his modelling of the subjects.'


Estimate: 8000-10000
254.    A FRENCH BRONZE EQUESTRIAN STATUE OF NAPOLEON BONAPARTE CAST FROM THE MODEL BY LOUIS MARIE MORISE, LATE 19TH CENTURY
on a signed naturalistic base
62.2cm; 24 1/2in high, 49.2cm; 19 3/8in long, 17.8cm; 7in wide
Estimate: 4000-5000
255.    A GERMAN FOLDING KNIFE BY J. A. HENKELS, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
with German silver body faced with faux mother-of-pearl plaques on each side fitted with numerous folding implements including blades, files, boot hooks, picks, bodkins, and screwdrivers, remaining in good crisp condition throughout, in its German silver-mounted leather pouch
8cm; 3 1/8in (closed)


Estimate: 350-400
256.    THE CASED COURT DRESS OF THE HONOURABLE GUY CHARTERIS (1886-1967), EARLY 20TH CENTURY
comprising court sword with cut steel hilt, in its scabbard, coatee, breeches, waistcoat, shoes with buckles en suite with the sword, cocked hat, and a pair of gloves: all contained in a black japanned tin case
Estimate: 350-450
257.    A BLACK LACQUERED PAPIER MACHÉ BOX, PROBABLY ENGLISH, CIRCA 1815
circular, the cover applied with a printed scene entitled 'BATAILLE DE WATERLOO / La garde meurt, et ne se rend pas / le 18 Juin 1815'
9cm; 3 1/2in diameter

Estimate: 100-150
258.    A MODEL CANNON IN 16TH/17TH CENTURY STYLE, 20th CENTURY
with bronze barrel cast with a crested coat-of-arms and acanthus foliage, on its wooden carriage
35cm (13 3/4in)

Estimate: 500-700
259.    AN UNUSUAL POWDER-FLASK, 19TH CENTURY
formed of wood, of tapering oval section, the outer surface encased in sharkskin (losses), and the borders encased in brass, with two rings for suspension, and complete with its wooden stopper
36.5cm; 14 3/8in
Estimate: 200-300
260.    A HIGHLAND DRESS POWDER HORN, 19TH CENTURY
of flattened cowhorn, with German silver fittings cast in low relief, comprising thistle-shaped finial, bulbous basal cap decorated with elaborate patterns of thistle flowers and foliage (loose), set with a foil-backed piece of glass in the base, and an additional foil-backed piece of glass in a scrollwork setting on the front, and retaining its German silver suspension chain
33.5cm; 13 1/4in
Estimate: 500-800
261.    A BRASS-MOUNTED POWDER HORN, EARLY 19TH CENTURY AND ANOTHER POWDER HORN
the first of natural cow horn, with brass basal cap and nozzle, the latter fitted with spring cut-off and with provision for suspension (worn); the second of natural cow horn, inscribed with the date 1847 at the base (probably later), scalloped basal cap, moulded nozzle with horn stopper, and two iron loops for suspension
the first: 27.5cm; 10 7/8in

(2)

Estimate: 250-350
262.    A HORN POWDER-FLASK, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
of flattened cowhorn, with brass basal cap, brass nozzle with spring cut-off and a pair of loops for suspension fitted with a brass chain
23.5cm; 9 1/4in
Estimate: 60-80
263.    THE PROPERTY OF A EUROPEAN COLLECTOR

A VERY FINE GERMAN MANUFACTURER'S MODEL CANNON BY ALFRED KRUPP PRESENTED TO KING GEORGE I OF GREECE, DATED 1864
with tapering multi-stage steel barrel swelling at the muzzle, cast with raised astragal and reinforcing bands, engraved with the Greek crowned royal cypher between entwined oak and olive branches on the first reinforce, chiselled on top of the base-ring with the abbreviated word for 'Arsenal' in Greek cyrillic, the date and with a gold-damascened cartouche between, and with a further cyrillic inscription beneath, globular cascable, and a pair of trunnions inscribed '1/5' on on the left and 'C/K.1748' on the right, on its original steel-mounted mahogany carriage, with steel-shod spoked cambered wheels, fitted with an ammunition case on each side, the bed with elevating screw, signed 'K.O.' and with the date 1858 on the trail eye bracket (cap-squares expertly replaced) and with its limber en suite with the carriage, carrying a further pair of fitted ammunition boxes, and with accurately detailed steel fittings throughout
49.5cm; 19 1/2in. barrel


The Krupp family arrived in Essen in 1587 and are recorded thirty one years later making over one thousand barrels a year at the start of the thirty years war. The family continued to manufacture gun barrels of a high quality and rose to international fame in the 19th and 20th Centuries. During the 19th Century a very large proportion of 'die Firma's' income was generated from other areas of the steel industry including the manufacture of steel tyres for trains. A considerable number of these were exported to the United States and praised for their superior quality. The income generated from this was able to subsidise the cannon founding business that was an obsessive passion for Alfred Krupp (1812-87).

George I of Greece ascended to the throne on 29th October 1863. The unrest of the years preceding this together with the handing over of the Ionian Islands by the British in June 1864 gave a favourable start to his reign.

For an account of the Krupp family see W. Manchester, 1964.

Estimate: 20000-30000
264.    A FINELY CONSTRUCTED MODEL CARRONADE MOUNTED IN A HULL-SECTION, LATE 18TH CENTURY

with tapering bronze three-stage barrel, the muzzle and second reinforce astragals each rising up to incorporate a v-shaped sight, the base incorporating a central lug for fixing to the bed, the vent lined with a rectangular panel of white metal, stepped cascabel incorporating a breeching loop and an iron screw for elevation, on its finely constructed fully adjustable mahogany bed, incorporated within a hull-section, complete with copper-lined hinged port-cover and adjusting pulleys
21.5cm; 8 1/2in barrel

The Carron Company was founded in Falkirk by Dr. John Roebuck, Samuel Garbett and William Cadell in 1759. The first carronades were produced from the designs of Charles Gascoigne from 1779 until 1852. A drawing of a carronade of similar form from 1785 and also in a hull-section is in the collection of H. M. The Queen of the Netherlands. See R. D. Smith 1989, p.34 and A. N. Kennard 1986, p. 54. A very similar model with an inscription recording its presentation from the Carron Company to Lieutenant General Melville signed by the maker's Winlaw, Engine Maker, Margaret Street, Cavendish Square was sold Christie's King Street, 11th February 1999, lot 299 (£20,700, including premium).

Estimate: 3000-4000
265.    A FINE PAIR OF CASED 38 BORE FRENCH PERCUSSION RIFLED TARGET PISTOLS BY LEPAGE, ARQUEBUSIER DU ROY, PARIS, NUMBER 2023, DATED 1818
with browned twist swamped octagonal sighted barrels cut with micro-groove rifling, decorated with a band of gold foliage around the muzzles (refreshed), signed in gold 'Le Page Arqer Du Roi' and 'et de Mgr Le Duc D'Orleans', inlaid with a gold arrow and numbered '1' and '2' in gold respectively, case-hardened breeches inlaid with gold lines, stamped with the date and number beneath, engraved case-hardened breech tangs incorporating the back-sights and numbered in gold, border-engraved bevelled locks signed in full and decorated with foliage, set triggers, figured walnut half-stocks carved with shell ornament at the fore-ends, chequered grips, the butts fitted with carved ebony pommels, engraved case-hardened steel mounts comprising two-piece flush-fitting side-plates formed as a leaf and a pair of addorsed water dragons respectively, spurred trigger-guards with neo-classical urn finial and decorated with a monster matching the side-plate, butt-caps, a pair of barrel bolt escutcheons, with no provision for a ramrod, and retaining much early finish throughout: in their original brass-bound rosewood veneered fitted case lined in tooled and gilt green and red leather (small areas of wear), complete with a full complement of accessories including signed case-hardened main-spring clamp, signed and numbered case-hardened bullet mould, signed carved ebony and ivory charge flask, and horn powder-flask bound with gilt-brass
35.5cm; 14in

It is likely that these pistols were converted in their early working life from fulminate lock to percussion, and possibly refinished in part at this time.

Jean Lepage (1792-1854) continued his father's business with his brothers André, Prosper and Henry. He was gunmaker to Louis XVIII and Charles X, was a member of the Conseil des Manufactures in 1825 and won medals at the Paris exhibitions of 1823, 1827, 1834 and 1839.

Estimate: 7000-9000
266.    A FINE AND RARE PAIR OF 22 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK LONG HOLSTER PISTOLS BY PIRAUBE AUX GALLERIES A PARIS, DATED 1697
with lightly swamped barrels fitted with silver fore-sights, signed in full and dated on a long central panel engraved with sprays of strapwork foliage at the muzzle end and chiselled with a grotesque at the breech end, moulded breeches chiselled with opposing classical warrior profile busts beneath a canopy and a trophy-of-arms all within a strapwork frame (areas of light wear), rectangular tangs engraved with a stylized grotesque and border ornament, stepped bevelled locks engraved with trophies on the tails, engraved and chiselled faceted pans signed in full beneath, the lock-plates and cocks engraved with strapwork foliage and border ornament en suite with the muzzles, finely chiselled steels decorated with a moustacheod espagnolette mask on the outer face and the spurs formed as grotesque monsters, highly figured walnut full stocks carved in low relief with linear mouldings over the fore-ends (one fore-end expertly repaired), scrolling tendrils with monsterhead terminals behind the rear ramrod-pipes and on either side of the barrel tangs, the butts inlaid in silver wire with scrolls over the spines and with a pattern of wavy lines about the barrel tangs, the side-plates and the pommel spurs, chiselled steel mounts comprising solid side-plates decorated with a framework of foliage incorporating an oval central panel and with a pierced design of foliage on the tails, moulded trigger-guards engraved en suite with the locks and with acanthus finials, spurred pommels engraved with elaborate trophies-of-arms carrying differing portrait medallions on each side, the caps finely chiselled with acanthus and a laurel frame enriched with gold pellets enclosing a mounted classical warrior on a punched ground, vacant escutcheons carried by a pair of addorsed herms, and surmounted by a ducal coronet, a pair of faceted ramrod-pipes (the mounts with areas of light wear), and steel-tipped wooden ramrods, perhaps the original
56cm; 22in

(2)

Provenance

Clay P. Bedford
Charles H. Moses, Ashtablula, Ohio 1966

Literature

Wallace B. Gusler and James D. Lavin, Decorated Firearms 1540-1870, from the Collection of Clay P. Bedford, Williamsburg, 1977, pp.34-7

Bertrand Piraube has been described as the most important figure in the decorative development of French firearms circa 1670-1724, and thus the history of European firearms as a whole. There is evidence that his first workshop was in Saint Germain en Laye, north west of Paris but little is known of this period. On 25th January 1670 Louis XIV granted him a brevet de logement in the Galeries du Louvre. This appointment, which was confirmed in March the following year, established Piraube as primus inter pares amongst the gunmakers working for Louis XIV. In German Brice's Description de la Ville de Paris, published in various editions between 1698 and 1718, he was described as a gunmaker who produced pieces of rare beauty. Working within the precincts of the Royal Palace freed Piraube from the restrictions of the Parisian Guilds and consequently he was able to employ as many apprentices and journeymen as his commissions required. It comes as no surprise that a significant number of the great European Ancestral Gunrooms have firearms by him, including a fowling-piece at Windsor Castle believed to have been presented to Charles II of England by Louis XIV; a pair of pistols and a fowling-piece that were presented to the young Charles XI of Sweden as part of an exceptional gift including twelve richly caparisoned horses each with a brace of pistols in the saddle holsters and a number of fowling pieces; and the gunroom of the former Electors of Saxony in Dresden which includes no less than eleven long arms and fourteen pairs of pistols by him.

Unlike many of his contemporaries Piraube dated the greater part of his firearms and thus one is able to follow the development of his style in considerable detail. The extant firearms by him are dated 1673, 1679, 1681, 1682, 1683, 1685, 1688, 1689, 1690, 1693, 1694, 1696, 1697, 1698, 1699, 1700, and 1715. In addition to this list two further pairs of pistols with steel mounts, dated 1700 and 1701 respectively, are recorded in the gewehrkammer of Duke August Wilhelm of Brunswick Luneburg (1662-1731).

The present pair of pistols represent an important turning point in Piraube's style, along with another pair of pistols dated 1696, one year earlier. The shorter side-plates with their oval medallions, the engraved oval medallions on each side of the pommels, the masks on the front of the steels and the geometric panels on the trigger-guards are among the features characteristic of the new Bérain style. While many of the features of this new style were a reintroduction from the mid-17th century others were entirely new, such as the inset geometrical panels on the trigger-guards and the espagnolette masks on the front of the steels. These were first published eight years after these pistols were made in 1705 as a supplement by de la Collombe to the reissue of Simonin's earlier pattern book. This also provides a useful insight into pattern books of this period and how the most fashionable firearms often preceded the publication of the designs.

See J. F. Hayward 1963, pp.32-47; the same author 1980, pp. 118-157; and D. J. Larocca 1992, pp. 184-207.




Estimate: 50000-70000
267.    A PAIR OF 25 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK OFFICER'S PISTOLS BY DALLY A PARIS, CIRCA 1770
with blued three-stage swamped barrels (worn), silver fore-sights on a spray of gilt foliage, signed over the breeches in gold and decorated in gold with trophies, pellets and the barrelsmith's stamps (worn), engraved breech tangs, gold-lined vents, rounded locks signed within scrollwork frames and engraved with trophies on the tails (cocks replaced, restorations), figured walnut full stocks carved with rococo ornament in low relief, including foliage about the rear ramrod-pipes and scrollwork about the tangs, engraved steel mounts including solid side-plates engraved with border ornament and foliage, spurred pommels decorated with trophies and foliage, trigger-guards with foliate terminals and trophies on the bows (the engraving largely refreshed throughout), and each with horn-tipped baleen ramrod, perhaps the original
31.7cm; 12 1/2in

(2)

Nicolas Dally is recorded as arquebusier in the Rue Dauphin, Paris circa 1762-80.

Estimate: 2000-3000
268.    A PAIR OF 28 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY JOSEPH LAMOTTE, CIRCA 1760
with swamped barrels retaining traces of decoration on the flats over the breeches, fitted with silver fore-sights, border and foliate-engraved tangs, signed engraved bevelled locks decorated with border ornament, flowers and reclining hounds on the tails (one cock replaced, engraving refreshed), figured walnut full stocks carved with scrolling foliage in low relief about the rear ramrod-pipes and barrel tangs (areas of wear, the fore-ends cracked), inlaid with silver wire scrollwork on the spine of the butts (small losses), engraved steel mounts comprising solid side-plates decorated with a boar pursued by a pair of hounds, spurred pommels decorated with acanthus, and trigger-guards decorated with rococo ornament on the bows, silver escutcheons engraved with laurel fronds framing the owner's coat-of arms beneath a coronet for a Count or Earl permitted, and with steel-tipped wooden ramrod (one replaced, the steel parts cleaned)
36cm; 14 1/8in

(2)

Joseph Lamotte (circa1716-84) worked in St Etienne and was one of the official suppliers of firearms to the cavalry during the third quarter of the 18th Century.
Estimate: 2500-3500
269.    A FINE PAIR OF 25 BORE FRENCH SILVER-MOUNTED FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY BARGE, PARIS CHARGE AND DISCHARGE MARKS FOR 1756-62, MAISON COMMUNE MARK FOR 1758
with blued three-stage barrels, fitted with silver fore-sights on a gilt bed of swirling clouds and a sunburst, decorated with bands of gilt beadwork and foliage about the muzzles, an elaborate classical trophy-of-arms at the median, gilt bands around the muzzles, signed in gold over the breeches, decorated with scrollwork and stylised clam shells within a framework of punched and gilt pellets (the bluing now oxidised to brown), border-engraved tangs decorated with differing trophies-of-arms, bevelled locks signed within rococo scrollwork frames, chiselled with trophies on the tails, foliage on the cocks and stylised espagnolette masks on the steels, all against a finely punched and gilt ground (one top-jaw expertly replaced), figured walnut full stocks carved in low relief with linear mouldings over the fore-ends, a wavy pattern beneath the locks, sprays of laurel, fronds and flowers behind the rear ramrod-pipes and about the barrel tangs, silver mounts cast and chased with rococo ornament in low relief against a gilt fishroe ground, comprising side-plates involving a pair of cornucopia carrying an oval engraved with differing trophies en suite with the respective tangs, trigger-guards with flaming urn finials, the bows engraved with trophies matching the tangs, spurred pommels decorated with rococo shell ornament and trophies against a finely punched and gilt ground, a pair of ramrod-pipes, original horn-tipped baleen ramrods, and remaining in fine condition throughout
38cm; 15in

(2)

Henri Barge is recorded arquebusier in Paris circa 1740-80.

Estimate: 10000-12000
270.    A PAIR OF 20 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK OFFICER'S PISTOLS, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with blued two-stage sighted barrels, decorated with gilt bouquets at the muzzles and over the breeches, engraved tangs incorporating the back-sights, case-hardened rounded locks, figured walnut full stocks carved with linear moulding over the fore-ends, about the locks and mounts and with scrolls and a flower about the tangs (fore-ends with minor repairs), engraved blued steel mounts including trigger-guards with foliate terminals, and pommels extending up the spine of the butt, horn fore-end caps, and horn-tipped wooden ramrods (one replaced, the other probably associated)
33cm; 13in

(2)

Estimate: 2000-3000
271.    A PAIR OF 22 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY C. GAGNIERE A ST ETIENNE, LYON CHARGE MARK FOR CIRCA 1775-80
with two-stage browned swamped barrels fitted with silver fore-sights on a gilt sunburst, decorated with gilt bands at the muzzles, trophies and foliage at the medians, inscribed 'Canon Tordu' within linear frames and with further gilt foliage at the breeches, border-engraved tangs, signed border-engraved rounded locks (one steel spring, top-jaw and screw replaced), figured walnut full stocks carved with linear moulding over the fore-end, about the mounts and with a spray of rococo foliage behind the tangs, full silver mounts comprising solid border-engraved side-plates, spurred pommels cast and chased with a Turk bust against a punched ground, vacant escutcheons enclosed by a rococo garland, engraved trigger-guards, and a pair of ramrod-pipes (later ramrods)
31.8cm; 12 1/2in

(2)

Clément Gagniere is recorded as arquebusier in St Etienne circa 1757-88.

Estimate: 3000-5000
272.    A FINE PAIR OF 28 BORE FRENCH D.B. FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY BLETTERIE A PARIS, CIRCA 1740
with lightly swamped barrels, decorated with bands of gold pellets at the muzzles, sprays of foliage and trophies, signed on the rib, fitted with silver fore-sights and decorated with further scrollwork and acanthus against a punched ground at the breeches (the goldwork extensively rubbed and with losses), grooved barrel tangs chiselled with trophies against a gilt fishroe ground, signed engraved stepped bevelled locks decorated with differing martial trophies and border ornament, the tails chiselled and gilt with trophies en suite, chiselled cocks decorated with foliage against a gilt ground, the steel faces chiselled with demon masks (the engraving worn, the cocks and steels with restorations), highly figured walnut full stocks carved with Green man masks issuant with foliage behind the rear ramrod-pipes and with foliage about the tangs (the fore-ends with minor repairs), inlaid with silver wire scrollwork over the fore-ends and the butts, full parcel-gilt silver mounts cast and chased in low relief, comprising trigger-guards with acanthus finials rising from demi-demon masks, the bows decorated with foliate central panes against a finely gilt fishroe ground, spurred trigger-guards decorated with differing trophies-of-hunting on each side within a rococo scrollwork frame accompanied by cornucopia, the butt-caps decorated with a laurel frame filled with portrait profiles of a nobleman and woman against a gilt fishroe ground respectively, oval escutcheons carried on trophies and engraved with the owner's crest beneath a count's coronet, a pair of faceted ramrod-pipes decorated en suite with the trigger-guards, blued trigger-plates, and each with its horn-tipped baleen ramrod
42cm; 16 1/2in

(2)

The arms, and almost certainly the portrait profiles on the pommels, are those of Count Jan-Karol Mniszech and his wife Countess Katarzyna (née Zamoyska) of Poland who married in 1741. Mniszech was Lieutenant General of the Crown, Great Chamberlain, Governor of Galicia and Huntsman of the Crown.

The silver mounts are of exceptional quality.

François Ovide Bletry (also Bletterie and Blettery) is recorded in Paris 1706-38 at Rue des Mauvais Garcons. During the period 1720-35 he had the title 'arquebusier et archer du roy'. A gun and a crossbow signed by him are preserved in the Historisches Museum Dresden. See T. Lenk 1965, pp.113-4 and J. Sensfelder 2007, p. 305. It would appear that few other pieces by him are extant.

Estimate: 15000-20000
273.    A FINE PAIR OF 18 BORE SPANISH MADRID-LOCK PISTOLS BY DIEGO VENTURA, MADRID, CIRCA 1745
with bright barrels formed in two stages, moulded at the muzzle and the median, octagonal breeches stamped with gold-lined barrelsmith's stamps (Neue Støckel 8398 and 1118), gold-lined vents, the barrels retained by a slender pierced band released by a spring-catch, tangs chiselled with border-ornament and foliage against a punched ground, stepped bevelled locks signed 'Diego Bentura' beneath the pans, engraved with a resting sportsman with a hound at his feet and with trophies-of-hunting on the tails, the cocks and steels chiselled with strapwork and foliage against a punched ground, highly figured walnut full-stocks moulded over the fore-ends, carved with acanthus behind the rear ramrod-pipe and the tangs, engraved, chiselled and parcel-gilt steel mounts comprising pierced scrolling foliate side-plates with grotesque monster terminals and central oval medallions engraved with male and female classical portrait profiles respectively, trigger-guards with moulded strapwork on the bows and anthemion terminals, spurred trigger-guards engraved with a Turkish warrior and a European huntsman each in contemporary costume amidst a spray of trophies and foliage, the pommel caps finely chiselled on a gilt fishroe ground with a classical warrior bust and a nobleman respectively, ramrod-pipes en suite with the trigger-guards, horn-tipped wooden ramrods, perhaps the original, and remaining in fine condition throughout
43.7cm; 17 1/4in

(2)

Diego Ventura is recorded in Madrid circa 1722 and 1762. He was the disciple of Alonso Martinez and became gunmaker to King Carlos III in 1760, dying two years later, as described by his near contemporary Isidro Soler. Another lock also signed Diego Bentura and dated 1730 is preserved in the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie Saint-Étienne, cat no. 150. See A. S. del Campo, p. 397 and J. Lavin 1965, p. 109.


Estimate: 12000-18000
274.    A PAIR OF 80 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK POCKET PISTOLS BY MION, ARQUEBUSIER A PARIS, PASSAGE DU COMMERCE, CIRCA 1794-6
with turn-off barrels, box-lock actions signed on the left and inscribed 'Passage du Commerce' on the right, sliding thumb-piece safety catches, folding triggers, and bulbous figured walnut butts carved with a rococo flower about the tangs
14.5cm; 5 3/4in

(2)

Provenance

W. Keith Neal, inv. no. P690 & 691

Mion is recorded at this address circa 1794-6. He was one of the Parisian arquebusiers who signed the petition against the Manufacture de Versailles.

Estimate: 1000-1500
275.    A PAIR OF 42 BORE D.B. FRENCH FLINTLOCK TRAVELLING PISTOLS BY BOUTET A VERSAILLES, CIRCA 1800
with three-stage barrels decorated with gold bands around the muzzles, punched and gilt with a line of beadwork at the median and over the breeches, the latter stamped 'Boutet' in miniscules within an octagonal panel, with the barrelsmiths marks (including Neue Støckel 95 and 97) and inscribed 'Manu Vlles' beneath, gold-lined vents (the gold with losses), grooved tangs of shaped outline, signed stepped bevelled locks, semi-rainproof pans, figured walnut full stocks, carved with a panel of fine chequering within a trellis framework on each side on the butt, steel mounts, comprising spurred trigger-guards with terminal of shaped outline, ramrod-pipes en suite with the trigger-guards, and moulded butt-caps (ramrods missing)
23.2cm; 9 1/8in

(2)


Estimate: 8000-10000
276.    A FINE PAIR OF 25 BORE BOHEMIAN D.B. FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY PAUL POSER IN PRAG, CIRCA 1720
with long swamped reblued barrels signed 'Paul Poser' and 'In Prag' respectively, fitted with brass foresights, border-engraved tangs incorporating grooved back-sights, finely engraved signed flat bevelled locks decorated with cavalrymen and pikemen beneath the pans, and on the tails with a musketeer and an encampment scene, the cocks engraved with foliage and chiselled with a monsterhead in relief (one trigger repaired), moulded figured walnut full stocks (minor repairs) carved in relief with linear mouldings over the fore-ends, strapwork and foliage behind the rear ramrod-pipes and about the barrel tangs, full brass mounts finely cast and chased in low relief, comprising trigger-guards with acanthus finials decorated with strapwork and opposing warrior busts on a punched ground on the bows, spurred pommels with further designs of strapwork foliage enclosing standing classical warriors on a punched ground, grotesque mask butt-caps within a beadwork frame, pierced escutcheons supported by female figures, engraved with the owner's crest beneath a coronet, a pair of faceted ramrod-pipes, the mounts retaining some original gilding, and original horn-tipped wooden ramrods
53.5cm; 21 1/8in

(2)

The crest is that of the Pálffy von Erdöd family, Counts of Bohemia and Hungary, created circa 1581.

Paul Poser was one of the leading Bohemian gunmakers of the first half of the 18th century. He is especially noted for his co-operation with the distinguished chiseller Franz Matzenkopf, medal die-cutter at the court of the Prince-Bishops of Salzburg, who is thought to have been responsible for the relief decoration on the locks and mounts of some of Poser's firearms. See J. Hayward 1963, pp. 124-126.
Estimate: 15000-20000
277.    A FINE PAIR OF 60 BORE FLINTLOCK BELT PISTOLS SIGNED GIO. BOTTI, CIRCA 1730
each with two-stage sighted barrel, fluted breech stamped by the barrelsmith 'Lazarino Cominazzo', plain tang fitted with folding back-sight, signed rounded lock struck with the locksmith's mark on the inside, CF crowned (the second letter indistinct), chiselled with scrolling monsterhead tendrils against a punched ground in the Brescian manner on the tails, cocks and steels, blued triggers, moulded figured walnut full stocks carved with scrolls about the ramrod-pipe, gilt-bronze mounts cast and chased with scrolling monsterhead tendrils en suite with the locks, comprising solid side-plates, trigger-guards, trigger-plates, and spurred pommels decorated with the owner's arms and cipher, short blued steel belt hooks, original ramrods with gilt-brass tips, and remaining in fine, virtually unused condition throughout
35.6cm; 14in

(2)

Provenance

The Gewehrkammer of the Grand Dukes of Saxe-Weimar at Schloß Ettersburg, Saxony

The arms and cypher are those of Ernst August I, Grand Duke of Saxe-Weimar (1688-1748).

A considerable number of firearms signed Gio Botti and decorated in this manner are associated with this gunroom which was dispersed in the early 20th Century. The present pair are notable in bearing the arms and cypher of the Grand Duke and can therefore be listed among his personal weapons. For a discussion of this group see J.F. Hayward 1963, pp. 134-5.

Estimate: 6000-8000
278.    A 25 BORE FRENCH D.B. SILVER-MOUNTED FLINTLOCK PISTOL BY PUIFORCAT ARQUEBUSIER DU ROI A PARIS, PARIS CHARGE MARK FOR 1756-62, MAISON COMMUNE MARK FOR 1761
with tapering barrels decorated with gold lines at the muzzle, fitted with silver fore-sight on a large gold sunburst, signed in full in gold along the rib, decorated with differing trophies-of-arms over the breeches, and with gold-lined vents (the gold with losses), engraved grooved breech tang, stepped bevelled locks signed in full, engraved with thunder bolts, scrolls and trophies-of-arms, figured walnut full stock (repairs), carved with rococo scrollwork and foliage behind the rear ramrod-pipe and the tang, full silver mounts finely cast and chased in low relief against a matted ground with rococo ornament, comprising trigger-guard decorated with a trophy-of-arms on the bow and with scroll and foliate terminal, spurred pommel with a further trophy-of-arms occupying the greater part of its surface, escutcheon filled with flowers within a scrollwork frame, and a pair of ramrod-pipes, and associated steel ramrod
36cm; 14 1/4in

Puiforcat is recorded arquebusier et fourbisseur in Paris circa 1746-1785. A double shotgun by him in the Bayersiches Nationalmuseum, Munich is signed Seul Arquebusier du Roy à Paris, the reason for which remains unknown. See J. F. Hayward 1963, p. 184.

Estimate: 3000-5000
279.    A FINE PAIR OF 60 BORE D.B. FRENCH FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY BRUNON L'AINE, ST ETIENNE, CIRCA 1790
with turn-off cannon barrels formed with roped mouldings, numbered '1' to '4' respectively, blued breeches stamped with the gold-lined barrrelsmith's mark, a lion, inscribed in gold 'Canon Tordu' and decorated with crowned eagles on thunderbolts within a framework incorporating Greek key pattern, border-engraved grooved breech tangs, signed bevelled locks fitted with engraved cocks, figured walnut half-stocks carved with a zig-zag pattern about the tangs, finely chequered butts encircled with a band of beadwork at the bottom, engraved steel mounts comprising broad moulded trigger-guards with neoclassical finials, and octagonal butt-caps decorated with flowers, vacant mother-of-pearl escutcheons, and with no provision for a ramrod
21.2cm; 8 3/8in

(2)

Laurant Brunon is recorded in St Etienne circa 1744-97.

Estimate: 5000-7000
280.    A 20 BORE FRENCH SILVER-MOUNTED FLINTLOCK PISTOL BY LEPAGE A PARIS, PARIS CHARGE AND DISCHARGE MARKS FOR 1750-56
with three-stage swamped sighted barrel decorated with gold scrolls about the fore-sight, signed in gold over the breech and decorated with further designs in gold (losses), shaped tang decorated en suite with the breech, rounded lock signed beneath the steel spring (cock repaired), figured walnut full stock carved with rococo flowers and foliage behind the rear ramrod-pipe and about the tang (fore-end repaired), full silver mounts cast and chased with rococo ornament in low relief, comprising side-plate and trigger-guard each decorated with scrolls and shells, spurred pommel fitted with a classical warrior bust profile on the cap, a pair of ramrod-pipes, and associated ramrod
37.4cm; 14 3/4in

Estimate: 2000-3000
281.    A 7MM BELGIAN SIX-SHOT PIN-FIRE REVOLVER BY LEPAGE FRÈRES A LIÈGE, MAISON A PARIS 12 RUE D'ENGHIEN, CIRCA 1870
with engraved blued fluted barrel group cut with polygroove rifling, scroll-engraved action, folding trigger, ivory butt inscribed with the maker's details on the back-strap, original steel clearing rod, in its chamois holster
11.8cm; 4 5/8in

Estimate: 600-800
282.    A PAIR OF 22 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY JEAN GRIOTTIERE, PARIS CHARGE MARK FOR 1762-68
with reblued swamped sighted barrels decorated in gold with scrollwork, flowers and foliage, engraved tangs, signed locks engraved with scrolls (engraving refreshed), figured walnut full stocks carved with scrolls and foliage in low relief about the rear ramrod-pipes and the tangs, full silver mounts cast and chased in low relief, comprising scrollwork side-plate decorated with a central rococo flower, trigger-guards with foliate terminals, spurred pommel decorated shell ornament on each side and with a dolphin on the butt-caps, vacant oval escutcheons and a pair of silver ramrod-pipes, and steel-tipped baleen ramrods, probably the original
36cm; 14 1/4in

(2)

Jean Griottiere is recorded arquebusier in St Etienne during the mid-18th Century. Støckel records 20 carbines, 215 rifles and 301 pistols made by Griottiere for the Dauphin's Dragoon regiment in 1743. The decoration of the pommels of the present pistols would suggest that they might have been part of this order.

Estimate: 4000-6000
283.    A PAIR OF 20 BORE LIEGOIS FLINTLOCK PISTOLS BY G. MASSIN, CIRCA 1740-50
with blued two-stage sighted barrels, signed in stamped letters at the medians, chiselled with foliage against a gilt ground at the breeches, chiselled barrel tangs decorated en suite with the breeches, bevelled locks chiselled with further designs of scrolling foliage against a gilt ground, figured walnut full stocks carved with scrolls and foliage in low relief behind the ramrod-pipes, parcel-gilt steel mounts chiselled with foliage, comprising solid side-plates, spurred faceted pommels, trigger-guards, escutcheons and a pair of ramrod-pipes, and one with it steel-tipped ramrod, perhaps the original (the other replaced)
40.5cm; 16in

(2)

Gilles Massin is recorded as a gun dealer in Liège circa 1740.

Estimate: 4000-6000
284.    A 20 BORE SPANISH MIQUELET-LOCK D.B. SPORTING GUN BY JOSEPH AGUIRE, EIBAR, DATED 1811
with reblued two-stage barrels fitted with silver fore-sight on a bed of silver-inlaid foliage, chiselled and gilt with foliage over the girdle, octagonal breeches inlaid with silver foliage and exotic birds, inscribed 'Fabricados en Eibar' and 'Ano d 1811 d Erraduras' and stamped with the gold-lined barrelsmith's marks, gold-lined vents, reblued grooved breech tang decorated with foliage en suite, border-engraved bevelled locks stamped with the gold-lined maker's marks and engraved with scrolls, gold-lined pans, figured walnut half-stock carved with linear mouldings over the fore-end, acanthus foliage behind the ramrod-pipe, an exotic bird ahead of the trigger-guard, and a green man mask behind the barrel tang, chequered grip, cheek-piece carved with vine foliage and grapes, burnished steel mounts including broad trigger-guard stamped with the gold-lined maker's mark and gold-lined decorative marks, engraved butt-plate with acanthus tang matching the trigger-guard finial (forward ramrod-pipe removed), and associated bone-tipped ramrod
83.2cm; 32 3/4in barrels


Estimate: 5000-7000
285.    A 20 BORE D.B. FRENCH SILVER-MOUNTED FLINTLOCK SPORTING RIFLE SIGNED 'MANUFACTURE A VERSAILLES, PARIS PROVINCIAL MARKS FOR CIRCA 1798-1809
with blued barrels cut with straight grooves, fitted with silver fore-sight on a bed of elaborate gold sun rays and thunderbolts, inscribed 'Canon Tordu' over the breech, the latter stamped with gold-lined barrelsmiths marks, inlaid in gold with neoclassical urns, a framework enclosing celestial motifs on a finely punched ground, and further scrollwork, gold-lined vents (expertly refinished), engraved grooved breech tang, engraved bevelled locks inscribed 'Manufacre' and 'a Versailles' respectively, decorated with foliage and thunderbolts, the cocks decorated with serpents and the steels en suite with the lockplates, gold-lined semi-rainproof pans, highly figured walnut half-stock finely carved with chequering enclosed by foliage over the fore-end and the grip (restored), the latter carved with three grotesque masks in high relief enclosing the butt, the butt carved with a matching head on the comb engulfing the grip, full silver mounts cast and chased in low relief, comprising trigger-guard with neoclassical foliage, butt-cap decorated with trophies-of-arms on the tang, fore-end cap, vacant escutcheon beneath the fore-end, a pair of barrel bolt escutcheons, and later escutcheon engraved with three fleur-de-lys, and bone-tipped baleen ramrod
80cm; 31 1/2in barrels
Estimate: 4000-6000
286.    AN 18 BORE D.B. FRENCH FLINTLOCK SPORTING GUN BY COULAUX A STRASBOURG, CIRCA 1800
with browned sighted barrels decorated with a gilt panel over their full length, a sunburst around the fore-sight, scrolls, thunderbolts and signed over the breech, stamped with the gold-lined maker's mark, the letters MD with crossed fronds between, and inscribed 'Merley Dumares' beneath, grooved tang, rounded locks signed 'Coulaux' on the left, inscribed 'Strasbourg' on the right, and engraved with sprays of delicate foliage, fitted with pierced cocks and rainproof pans, figured walnut half-stock carved in low relief with crossed fronds behind the ramrod-pipe, and foliage about the tang, chequered grip, cheek-piece carved with a scroll of foliage at each end, burnished steel mounts including broad moulded trigger-guard with foliate terminal, shaped butt-plate with moulded borders, and rear ramrod-pipe en suite, and associated ramrod
86.3cm; 34in barrels

A father and son of this name are recorded in Strasbourg and Klingenthal circa 1764-1838.
Estimate: 3000-5000
287.    A .750 CALIBRE EAST INDIA COMPANY FLINTLOCK MUSKET, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
of transitional pattern, with tapering sighted barrel fitted with standing back-sight, stamped with East India heart mark and proof marks at the breech, rounded dated lock engraved with East India lion (worn), walnut full stock, brass mounts of regulation type, a pair of sling swivels and steel ramrod
99cm; 39in barrel
Estimate: 400-600
288.    A .700 CALIBRE CONTINENTAL FLINTLOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1810
with tapering barrel retained by two pierced brass bands (cut-down, perhaps a regulation conversion), regulation lock stamped 'Ascaran' (rubbed), walnut full stock (chipped behind the lock), steel trigger-guard (repaired), butt-plate and ramrod
57.5cm; 22 3/4in barrel

Estimate: 200-300
289.    A .700 CONTINENTAL FLINTLOCK REGULATION MUSKET, CIRCA 1811 AND A .650 CALIBRE CONTINENTAL PERCUSSION MILITARY RIFLE, CIRCA 1850
the first with tapering barrel retained by three brass bands, tang inscribed 'M. 1811', lock with rounded tail and brass pan, full stock impressed with an arsenal mark on the right of the butt, brass mounts and steel ramrod (worn); the second with rifled barrel retained by three shaped brass bands (pitted), regulation lock with arsenal conversion to percussion, full stock, brass mounts, steel ramrod, and a socket bayonet
the first: 108.5cm; 42 3/4in
the second: 103cm; 40 1/2in barrel

(3)
Estimate: 300-400
290.    A .65 CALIBRE NEW LAND PATTERN FLINTLOCK PISTOL
with 9in barrel stamped with proof marks at the breech, bevelled lock with raised pan, engraved 'GR' crowned and 'Tower', walnut full stock (cracks and repairs), regulation brass mounts and stirrup ramrod
38.7cm; 15 1/4in
Estimate: 600-800
291.    A .750 CALIBRE FLINTLOCK REGULATION PISTOL BY BRANDER & POTTS, LONDON, EARLY 19TH CENTURY
of regulation type, with tapering barrel fitted with stirrup ramrod, signed lock (cock replaced), walnut full stock, and brass mounts
38.7cm; 15 1/4in
Estimate: 350-450
292.    A .56 CALIBRE 1756/77 PATTERN FLINTLOCK SEA SERVICE PISTOL
with 12in barrel stamped with proof marks at the breech, border-engraved lock with 'GR' crowned and 'Tower', regulation full stock impressed with assembly and arsenal marks (chipped around the pommel, bruising), regulation brass mounts, steel belt hook, and original brass-tipped ramrod
48.3cm; 19in
Estimate: 1400-1800
293.    A .56 CALIBRE 1756/77 PATTERN FLINTLOCK SEA SERVICE PISTOL
with 12in barrel stamped with proof marks at the breech, border-engraved lock with 'GR' crowned and 'Tower', regulation full stock impressed with assembly and arsenal marks, regulation brass mounts, steel belt hook, and original brass-tipped ramrod
48.3cm; 19in
Estimate: 1000-1200
294.    A .577 CALIBRE VICTORIAN PERCUSSION PISTOL OF COASTGUARD TYPE, DATED 1845 AND A FRENCH .750 CALIBRE MODEL 1816 FLINTLOCK CAVALRY PISTOL
the first with tapering barrel, dated regulation lock with VR crowned, full stock (chipped), and regulation brass mounts (later ramrod, worn); the second of regulation specifications (worn throughout), fitted with Westley Ricards steel ramrod
the first 28.5cm; 11 1/4in

(2)

Estimate: 250-350
295.    A .700 CALIBRE FRENCH MODEL 1822 PERCUSSION CAVALRY PISTOL
of regulation specifications, with sighted 8in barrel stamped with arsenal markings at the breech, the lock with traces of arsenal inscription probably for Chatellerault, the stock impressed '1952' on the left, and brass mounts including butt-cap with steel lanyard (ramrod missing)
35cm; 13 3/4in

Estimate: 200-300
296.    A .700 CALIBRE CONTINENTAL FLINTLOCK REGULATION PISTOL, CIRCA 1820
with tapering barrel, rounded lock retaining traces of the date and stamped with a mark, 'DN' crowned, figured walnut full stock, and brass mounts including butt-cap with steel lanyard ring
38.7cm; 15 1/4in
Estimate: 250-350
297.    A CASED 54 BORE ADAMS PATENT 1851 MODEL FIVE-SHOT SELF-COCKING PERCUSSION REVOLVER, BY DEANE ADAMS & DEANE NO. 30 KING WILLIAM ST, LONDON BRIDGE, RETAILED BY E. & E. EMANUEL, AGENTS, 3 THE HARD, PORTSEA, NO. 13601R CIRCA 1855
with blued sighted barrel engraved with lines along each face, signed with the full maker's and retailer's details, decorated with a band of foliage at the muzzle, border-engraved blued frame decorated with further scrolls of foliage and stamped with patent details and serial number on the right, the cylinder with matching serial number and engraved with a band of foliage, chequered walnut butt with engraved steel cap with trap, engraved trigger-guard with traces of original bluing, and the barrel and frame retaining much original blued finish: in its original fitted oak case lined in green baize, the lid applied with trade label for 30 King William Street (some staining), and retaining a number of accessories including Sykes patent copper powder-flask and brass cap dispenser, oil bottle, and two-way shot carrier
31.5cm; 12 1/2in





Estimate: 2000-2500
298.    A CASED 54 BORE ADAMS PATENT MODEL 1851 FIVE-SHOT SELF-COCKING PERCUSSION REVOLVER MADE UNDER LICENSE BY A. FRANCOTTE, LIÈGE PROOF, NO.6210 CIRCA 1860
with blued octagonal rifled sighted barrel signed 'Manufr. By A. Francotte licensed by Deane, Adams & Deane, London', signed scroll-engraved blued frame stamped 'Adams 1851 Patent' on the left, chequered walnut butt, scroll-engraved trigger-guard and butt-cap with trap: in contemporary fitted oak case lined in green baize, the lid with Deane Adams & Deane trade label for 30 King William Street, and complete with some accessories including brass bullet mould and copper flask (the lining worn, lid with one minor repair, key escutcheon missing)
29cm; 11 1/2in

The exact date of commencement for Adams patent revolvers being made in Belgium remains unclear. Examples marked Adams Patent 1851 on the frame are less common. See A. W. F. Taylerson, R. A. N Andrews and J. Frith 1968, p.111.
Estimate: 1200-1800
299.    A FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS, THE LOCK SIGNED PEAKE, LONDON, CIRCA 1800
reconverted from percussion, with earlier brass barrel formed in four stages, belled at the muzzle, stamped with the barrelsmith's mark of Daniel 2 Moore and inscribed 'London' over the breech, iron tang grooved for sighting (cracked), signed rounded lock (associated, pitted, worn), figured walnut full stock (repairs), full brass mounts engraved with rococo ornament including solid side-plate, trigger-guard with acorn finial, vacant escutcheon, and later ramrod
84cm; 33 1/8in
Estimate: 800-1000
300.    A FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS BY BLANCH, CIRCA 1800
with two-stage steel barrel swelling towards the muzzle, (pitted), engraved tang, signed engraved stepped lock previously fitted with bolt safety-catch (now missing), figured walnut full stock (fore-end split), chequered grip, engraved brass mounts including trigger-guard with trophies on the bow and pineapple finial and butt-plate, vacant silver escutcheon, and brass ramrod, probably the original
76cm; 30in
Estimate: 500-700
301.    A COMPOSITE FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS WITH LOCK BY T. PAGE, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with late 17th Century brass barrel formed in two stages, stamped with London View and proof marks at the breech, the unrecorded barrelsmith's mark 'TF' beneath a stylised crown, and formed with a raised grooved moulding for sighting, border-engraved lock signed 'T Page', walnut full stock (chipped and cracked) and brass mounts of shaped outline
74cm; 29 1/4in
Estimate: 500-700
302.    A FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS BY SILK, DUBLIN, CIRCA 1800
reconverted from percussion, with three-stage brass barrel strongly belled at the muzzle, signed and stamped with Mayo registration number, 'MA1130', over the breech, iron tang, signed stepped bevelled lock, walnut full stock (cracks and repairs), and brass mounts of shaped outline
78cm; 30 3/4in


Estimate: 1000-2000
303.    A MIQUELET-LOCK MUSKETOON BY PERES, EARLY 18TH CENTURY, PROBABLY PORTUGESE
with two-stage barrel moulded at the muzzle and stamped with the barrelsmith's marks retaining traces of gold inlay at the breech (obscured), retained by a pair of shaped steel bands, engraved breech tang, signed shaped lock decorated with scrolls, hardwood full stock including 'Catalan' butt carved with a wavy pattern, and iron mounts comprising trigger-guard (repaired), side-plate, belt hook, butt-cap and horn-tipped wooden ramrod, perhaps the original
62.5cm; 24 5/8in barrel

Three makers with this name are recorded in Lisbon during the 17th Century. Estimate: 1000-1500
304.    A 35 BORE GERMAN PERCUSSION SPORTING RIFLE WITH BARREL BY JAMES 1 WILKINSON, LONDON, CIRCA 1840
with signed browned twist heavy octagonal barrel of circa 1810, rifled with five grooves, stamped with the barrelsmith's mark beneath, fitted with barleycorn fore-sight and folding ladder back-sight, case-hardened breech, engraved case-hardened breech tang decorated with foliage inhabited by a serpent, detented lock engraved with foliage around the border and a hound in pursuit of a stag, retained by a blued quick-release thumb-screw, and fitted with engraved case-hardened hammer en suite with the tang, double set trigger, highly figured walnut full stock cut with a shaped panel of chequering at the fore-end and the grip, carved raised cheek-piece (bruising and scratches, the fore-end with one small crack), finely engraved steel mounts comprising trigger-guard shaped for the fingers and incorporating an adjustable front guard, spurred butt-plate decorated with a stag, three moulded ramrod-pipes, and two sling swivels, silver scrolling side-plate inset with a vacant gold escutcheon beneath, oval escutcheon, silver barrel bolt escutcheons, horn fore-end cap (one small crack), and brass-tipped steel ramrod, perhaps the original
76.5cm; 30 1/8in barrel

James 1 Wilkinson is recorded as Henry Nock's foreman and succeeded him as Gunmaker in Ordinary to George III in 1805.
Estimate: 1000-1500
305.    A .600 CALIBRE GERMAN TARGET RIFLE SIGNED W. FREUND IN HEIDELBERG, CIRCA 1860
with heavy octagonal etched twist barrel rifled with seven narrow grooves, inscribed 'Canon Damassé' and signed in gold over the breech (sights removed), the breech incorporating a percussion bolster finely chiselled as a scaly monster, engraved breech tang with provision for two standing back-sights behind, border and scroll-engraved lock fitted with pierced hammer decorated en suite, double set trigger, highly figured walnut full stock carved with bold chequering over the fore-end and the grip, carved raised cheek-piece, carved horn mounts including trigger-guard (incomplete), side-plate decorated with a reclining stag (cracked), and fore-end cap, three white metal ramrod-pipes, horn fore-end cap, and original horn-tipped wooden ramrod
94cm; 37in barrel
Estimate: 700-900
306.    A 22 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK SPORTING GUN BY JEAN LOUIS JALABERT, ST ETIENNE, CIRCA 1800
with two-stage blued swamped barrel, fitted with silver fore-sight enclosed by a gilt wreath, inscribed 'Canon Tordu' and decorated with thunderbolts and scrolling foliage all in gold over the breech, stamped with the barrelsmith's mark for Sebastian Merley (Neue Støckel 7902), platinum-lined vent, engraved breech tang incorporating a grooved back-sight, signed bevelled lock decorated with foliage on the tail and the cock, platinum-lined pan (the vent and pan relined, probably in its working life), figured walnut three-quarter stock (cut-down from full stock) carved about the tang with foliage and a basket of fruit, chequered grip and fore-end, the former carved with a goat's head in the round, carved raised cheek-piece , engraved steel mounts including two-piece side-plate, trigger-guard with stylised urn finial, two ramrod-pipes, and gold escutcheon engraved with the owner's initials, and associated horn-tipped baleen ramrod
78cm; 30 3/4in barrel

Estimate: 2500-3500
307.    A .550 CALIBRE CONTINENTAL PERCUSSION TARGET RIFLE FOR BELTED BALL SIGNED EUGÈNE DUPRÉ, LIÈGE PROOF, MID-19TH CENTURY
with heavy twist octagonal barrel signed in gold, fitted with fore-sight with etched cover, etched back-sight adjustable for windage and fitted with drop-shaped level, etched breech and breech tang, the latter fitted with folding fully adjustable peep-sight, flush-fitting stepped lock retained by an etched quick-release thumb-screw and etched over its surface with scrolling foliage, double set trigger, figured walnut full stock carved with foliage over the grip, the butt with carved raised cheek-piece on the left and etched hinged patchbox-cover on the right, etched steel mounts comprising small side-plate, butt-plate, trigger-guard, three robust ramrod-pipes, the rear incorporating a long slender panel extending towards the trigger-guard, horn fore-end cap (chipped), and brass-tipped wooden ramrod, perhaps the original
84cm; 33in barrel
Estimate: 800-1000
308.    A COMPOSED PAIR OF HANOVERIAN ROYAL D.B. PIN-FIRE SPORTING GUNS MADE FOR ERNST AUGUST, CROWN PRINCE OF HANOVER, CIRCA 1878
one 16 and the other 14 bore, with rebrowned twist sighted barrels signed in gold on the ribs by the barrelsmiths 'Albert Staelhe in Wienn' and 'H. Scherping in Hannover' respectively (one rebarrelled in its early working life), finely chiselled breech tangs decorated with a hound beneath a tree, the crowned Royal cypher, and enriched with gold scrolls, rounded Lefaucheux type actions operated by a rotary underlever, chiselled with scrollwork and game vignettes enriched with gold, back-action locks decorated en suite with the actions, figured walnut half-stocks with chequered grips and raised cheek-pieces (light bruising), chiselled steel trigger-guards en suite with the locks and actions, reinforced with a piece of scrolling horn, engraved steel butt-plates with the numbers '1' and '2', and a pair of sling swivels (the steel parts with areas of pitting)
74cm; 29 1/8in barrels

Provenance

The Crown Prince's Gunroom, Schloss Cumberland, Gmunden
Schloss Marienburg

Estimate: 3000-3500
309.    A 16 BORE HANOVERIAN ROYAL D.B. PIN-FIRE SPORTING GUN MADE FOR ERNST AUGUST, CROWN PRINCE OF HANOVER, BY H. SCHERPING IN HANNOVER, CIRCA 1870
with rebrowned twist sighted barrels signed on a matted rib, engraved breech tang decorated with the crowned Royal cypher, rounded Lefaucheux type action operated by a horn rotary underlever, engraved with scrollwork and enriched with panels of gold scrollwork, signed engraved locks chiselled with game vignettes in gold frames, figured walnut half-stock with chequered grip and raised cheek-piece, chiselled steel trigger-guard en suite with the locks, reinforced with a piece of scrolling horn, engraved steel butt-plate with the number '9' on a small oval escutcheon adjacent to the heel, and a sling swivel (the forward sling swivel missing, steel parts with areas of pitting)
75.2cm; 29 5/8in barrels

Provenance

The Crown Prince's Gunroom, Schloss Cumberland, Gmunden
Schloss Marienburg

Estimate: 1000-1500
310.    A .600 CALIBRE HANOVERIAN ROYAL PIN-FIRE DOUBLE SPORTING RIFLE MADE FOR ERNST AUGUST, CROWN PRINCE OF HANOVER, BY H. SCHERPING IN HANNOVER, CIRCA 1870
with rebrowned twist sighted barrels rifled with seven grooves, signed in gold and decorated with gold scrollwork at the breech, engraved breech tang chiselled with a stag and the crowned Royal cipher in a gold frame, rounded Lefaucheux type action operated by a chiselled steel underlever decorated en suite with the tang, back-action locks chiselled with stag and boar hunting vignettes enriched with gold, figured walnut half-stock with chequered grip and raised cheek-piece, chiselled steel trigger-guard en suite with the locks, reinforced with a piece of scrolling horn at each end, engraved steel butt-plate with the number '12', and a pair of steel sling swivel (the steel parts with areas of pitting)
64cm; 25 1/4in barrels

Provenance

The Crown Prince's Gunroom, Schloss Cumberland, Gmunden
Schloss Marienburg

Estimate: 2500-3500
311.    A 16 BORE HANOVERIAN D.B. PERCUSSION CAPE RIFLE BY TANNER IN HANNOVER, CIRCA 1830
with rebrowned twist sighted barrels, the right barrel rifled, signed in gold on the rib, engraved case-hardened breech decorated with scrolling foliage extending down each side and inlaid with gold lines, back-action locks chiselled with differing scenes involving hounds and stags, scroll-engraved hammers, set trigger for the rifled barrel, figured walnut half-stock, chequered grip, raised cheek-piece, engraved steel mounts decorated en suite with the locks including trigger-guard and butt-plate, the latter engraved 'no.1988', vacant white metal escutcheon, white metal barrel bolt escutcheons, and brass-tipped wooden ramrod (the steel parts with areas of pitting)
76.8cm; 30 1/4in barrels

Provenance

The Crown Prince's Gunroom, Schloss Cumberland, Gmunden
Schloss Marienburg

Estimate: 2000-2500
312.    A 12 BORE PIN-FIRE FORWARD UNDERLEVER SHOTGUN BY JOHN MANTON & SON, DOVER STREET, CIRCA 1830
converted from percussion, with rebrowned twist barrels signed on the rib (fore-sight missing), the breech adapted for breech-loading, engraved breech tang, signed flush-fitting locks engraved with characteristic scrolls and dragons, figured walnut half-stock with chequered grip, hinged take-down fore-end operated by a catch ahead of the trigger-guard, engraved steel mounts including butt-plate and trigger-guard, and vacant German silver escutcheon
71.8cm; 28 1/4in barrels
Estimate: 700-900
313.    A RARE 11 BORE ENGLISH LOCK MUSKET, CIRCA 1650
with three-stage sighted barrel, the breech of octagonal and polygonal form and inscribed with the armoury number '17' on the top flat, stamped with London view and proof mark and the barrelsmith's mark, perhaps 'TG', plain tang (small repair), flat lock retained by three side nails, stamped with the maker's initials 'HB', fitted with dog catch, separate pan, and buffer for the cock, the trigger pivoting on a pin above the tail of the lock-plate, walnut full stock carved with a shell in low relief about the barrel tang (the stock a working replacement, small cracks and chips), iron trigger-guard, two brass ramrod-pipes, and later iron-tipped ramrod
107.3cm; 42 1/4in barrel

Provenance

William Keith Neal
The Marquess of Bath, Longleat House, Wiltshire

Literature

Richard Akehurst, The World of Guns, 1972, p.15, illustrated.
W. Keith Neal and D. H. L. Back, Great British Gunmakers 1540-1740, 1984 p.108, plate 25.

It has been suggested that the initials on the lock may be those of Harman Barne (recorded in England circa 1642-61). Estimate: 4000-6000
314.    A CASED PAIR OF 54 BORE POLISH PERCUSSION RIFLED TARGET PISTOLS BY J. PETERSCHÜTZ IN PITSCHEN, CIRCA 1840
with octagonal swamped etched twist barrels signed in silver on the flats and rifled with eight grooves, German silver fore-sights, engraved case-hardened breeches incorporating a fence, engraved case-hardened tangs fitted with blued adjustable back-sights and numbered '1' and '2' respectively, engraved stepped case-hardened locks decorated with trophies-of-arms and neo-rococo ornament and enriched with silver (the top portion of one hammer spur detached), set triggers, figured walnut half-stocks with moulded fore-ends, carved with foliage over the spine of the butts and a finely chequered panel on each side, engraved case-hardened steel mounts decorated en suite with the locks, comprising butt-caps with acorn finials and spurred trigger-guards, German silver barrel bolt escutcheons, with no provision for ramrods, and each remaining in fine crisp condition throughout: in original fitted hardwood case (lid cracked) lined in green baize (areas of wear) and complete with a number of accessories including bullet mould, wad cutter and nipple wrench
38.7cm; 15 1/4in

Together with a typed note recording the pistols presentation to Lt. Col. Harris by Baron Emmerich v. Jeszenszky, the grandson of the original owner, in 1947.
Estimate: 4000-6000
315.    A CASED PAIR OF 40 BORE DANISH PERCUSSION RIFLED TARGET PISTOLS BY DELCOMYN, KIOBENHAVN, CIRCA 1840
with octagonal swamped sighted barrels signed 'C. H. Delcomyn' and 'Kiobenhavn' in silver respectively, rifled with eight grooves, engraved case-hardened breeches inlaid with silver lines, engraved case-hardened tangs incorporating the back-sights, signed flush-fitting locks engraved with border ornament and foliage (one hammer spur detached, one hammer screw head missing), set triggers, figured walnut full stocks, chequered butts, engraved case-hardened engraved steel mounts including trigger-guards, butt-caps and a pair of ramrod-pipes (ramrods missing, the steel parts patinated throughout), and horn fore-end caps: in their fitted elm case lined in green baize, complete with some accessories including embossed copper flask signed 'A Paris', bullet mould, and combined turnscrew, mallet and powder measure (lid warped)
40cm; 15 3/4in

Carl Heinrich Delcomyn (circa 1800-64) was born in Helsingor, trained by his father Heinrich in Odense and arrived in Copenhagen around 1825. In 1834 he is recorded gunmaker to the Jutland Infantry Regiments.
Estimate: 3000-5000
316.    A 32 BORE FRENCH PERCUSSION TARGET PISTOL BY LE PAGE, ARQUEBUSIER DU ROI, PARIS, NO. 2837, CIRCA 1825-30
with rebrowned octagonal swamped twist sighted barrel cut with polygroove rifling, decorated with a band of gold foliage about the muzzle, signed in a gold oval over the breech and numbered '2' (the gold with losses), stamped with the serial number beneath and the barrelsmith's mark, foliate-engraved tang numbered in gold en suite with the barrel and fitted with standing back-sight, flush-fitting detented lock signed in a gold oval and engraved with trophies, set trigger, highly figured walnut half-stock carved with shell ornament at the fore-end, chequered butt fitted with a wooden pommel projecting to the right for assisting aim (probably an early working addition), engraved steel mounts comprising spurred steel trigger-guard with urn-shaped finial engraved with foliage, bat-wing side-plate, and a pair of barrel bolt escutcheons, and with no provision for a ramrod
35.2cm; 13 7/8in

Estimate: 800-1200
317.    A 20 BORE FLEMISH FLINTLOCK HOLSTER PISTOL, LATE 18TH CENTURY
with engraved tapering brass barrel (shortened, the breech repaired), engraved bevelled lock fitted with later 'French' cock, moulded walnut full stock (repaired, fore-end replaced), and engraved brass mounts
40cm; 15 3/4in
Estimate: 300-400
318.    A 32 BORE FRENCH FLINTLOCK TRAVELLING PISTOL BY ALEGRE A PARIS CIRCA 1750
with tapering barrels retaining some gold decoration, engraved grooved tang, border-engraved stepped locks decorated with scrolls and trophies, signed on the right and inscribed 'a Paris' on the left, figured walnut full stock carved with rococo ornament in low relief, engraved steel mounts including spurred pommel decorated with trophies and with a gilt classical profile on the cap, and trigger-guard with acanthus finial (the steel parts rusted, triggers missing, lock inoperative, stock with cracks and small chips)
28cm; 11in
Estimate: 400-600
319.    A SPANISH MIQUELET-LOCK PISTOL, RIPOLL, EARLY 18TH CENTURY
with two-stage barrel, the forward portion formed with a central rib and moulded at the muzzle, fluted breech, engraved tang, iron patilla lock stamped with the maker's mark beneath the pan (rubbed), hardwood stock with near spherical butt, applied beneath the fore-end, about the trigger-guard and around the tang with pierced and engraved brass plaques in the Ripoll style (losses), the butt applied with an expanded flowerhead in engraved brass, spurred steel trigger-guard, brass fore-end cap decorated with scrolls on a hatched ground, and moulded steel ramrod, probably the original (the steel parts pitted)
26cm; 10 1/4in
Estimate: 1000-1500
320.    A RARE FRENCH FLINTLOCK BLUNDERBUSS PISTOL BY DUMAREST A PARIS, CIRCA 1820
with tapering barrel swelling to a strongly formed elliptical muzzle, fitted with a spring bayonet beneath, and signed beneath the breech, border-engraved box-lock action finely engraved with camels on the left and a bull on the right, engraved with thunder bolts on the top-jaw, sliding thumb-piece safety-catch also locking the steel, figured walnut butt (chipped behind the lock on one side) carved with a band of foliage around the pommel, cut with a panel of fine chequering enriched with silver nails all within a beadwork frame above a gold swag on each side, inlaid in gold and silver with flowers and foliage over the spine of the butt (losses), engraved steel trigger-guard locking the bayonet, engraved steel butt-cap with lanyard ring, and vacant silver shield-shaped escutcheon (the steel parts patinated throughout)
27.3cm; 10 3/4in

Estimate: 800-1000
321.    A PERCUSSION KNIFE-PISTOL BY UNWIN & RODGERS, SHEFFIELD, BIRMINGHAM PROOF MARKS, CIRCA 1860
with tapering octagonal German silver barrel, the frame faced in polished cow horn over brass fillets, folding iron trigger and with two folding blades of differing size, engraved 'Unwin & Rodgers, Sheffield' and 'Non XLL Unwin Rodgers Patent' at the respective bases, the butt with folding German silver cap, and retaining its original steel tweezers, (bullet mould missing)
17cm; 6 3/4in

Estimate: 500-700
322.    A RARE .650 CALIBRE D.B. PERCUSSION BELT PISTOL BY WILKINSON, BIRMINGHAM PROOF MARKS, CIRCA 1850
with browned sighted barrels signed on the rib, tang of shaped outline, flush-fitting case-hardened back-action locks, the left lock fitted with steel belt hook, figured walnut three-quarter stock, brass mounts of regulation type, comprising trigger-guard, butt-cap fitted with a robust steel 'skull crusher' of hog's back form pierced for attaching to a rampart or perhaps a howdah, brass ramrod-pipe, original swivel ramrod, and with much early colour throughout
37.5cm; 14 3/4in
Estimate: 1200-1800
323.    A CASED PAIR OF 45 BORE FLINTLOCK TRAVELLING PISTOLS BY JAMES FREEMAN, CIRCA 1740
with short turn-off cannon barrels, border-engraved rounded breeches decorated with a band of foliage and inscribed 'London' on top and 'Freeman' beneath the pans, border-engraved tangs and locks, swelling chequered walnut butts (probably chequered in their early working life), carved with foliage about the breech tangs, engraved trigger-guards, and drop-shaped silver butt-caps: in a later lined and fitted case
13cm; 5 1/8in

(2)

James Paul Freeman was elected assistant 1727, and master in 1732. He made a number of fine silver-mounted pistols including some breech-loaders. See H. L. Blackmore 1986, p. 96.
Estimate: 3500-4500
324.    A PAIR OF 10 BORE FLINTLOCK DUELLING PISTOLS BY WILLIAM 2 BRANDER, CIRCA 1780
with swamped barrels fitted with standing back-sights and with traces of the barrelsmith's stamps at the breeches (fore-sights removed, pitted), steel tangs grooved for sighting, signed stepped border-engraved locks (pitted, signatures obscured), figured walnut full stocks (cracks and repairs, one fore-end replaced), flat-sided butts in the manner of Wogdon, full brass mounts including engraved flush-fitting scrolling side-plates, vacant rococo escutcheons, and trigger-guards with a rococo flower on the bows and acorn finials (later ramrods)
47.5cm; 18 3/4in

(2)

William 2 Brander is recorded at 70 Minories 1765-87.
Estimate: 1000-1500
325.    A PAIR OF SCOTTISH HIGHLAND FLINTLOCK BELT PISTOLS MADE ENTIRELY OF STEEL BY I. MURDOCH, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 18TH CENTURY
with four stage barrels engraved with opposing designs of scrollwork and foliage, octagonal muzzles decorated with alternating panels of scrollwork, and cut with fluting over the breeches (rubbed), signed locks with engraved bevelled edges, wrigglework borders and scrollwork at the rear, engraved full stocks decorated with an engraved silver panel beneath the locks, silver Celtic strapwork over the spines, and an engraved oval on each side of the butts decorated with the owner's crest and monogrammed initials 'BV' respectively, engraved silver button triggers, engraved silver prickers en suite with the triggers (the silver rubbed), engraved steel belt hooks, and each with its steel ramrod
31.8cm; 12 1/2in

(2)

The crest is probably that of Vere of Stanbroke, Suffolk.

John Murdoch is recorded in Doune circa 1750-98. Alexander MacGibbon makes the following reference to him in his account of the Doune gunmaking industry, published around 1798 'John Murdoch.......famous for his ingenuity in the craft and who likewise furnished pistols to the first nobility of Europe. These pistols were sold for 4-24 guineas a pair.......' See M. Kelvin 1996, pp. 92-4.
Estimate: 7000-9000