Extraordinary Cased Exhibition Quality Panel Scene Engraved 19th Century Baucheron of Paris Takedown Air Rifle This exhibition quality takedown air rifle was manufactured by Baucheron of Paris (1823-1856) and features a highly artistic and imaginative engraving. The top barrel flat is signed "BAUCHERON A PARIS" at the breech. The frame, trigger guard, cock, ramrod pipes and barrel sections at the breech and muzzle feature a full coverage floral engraving. The trigger is engraved with a series of dots. Amongst the floriated motif featured on the frame is classical imaginary: Titan god of the sun Helios riding a three horse drawn chariot surrounded by a formation of flying cherubs (left side), a crowned cherub sitting on a throne (top) and a fairy dropping flower petals (right side). Dragon-like creatures appear on the underside and right side of the frame. "Gve PAR LANGLOIS PARIS" is marked inside a fancy banner below the hammer. The trigger guard has a blank initial panel. The sights are fixed. The engraved surfaces appear to have been left in the white, and the non-engraved surfaces of the barrel are brown Damascus. The tip of the steel ramrod is also engraved. The highly figured walnut stock features full length flutes and engraved hardware. The hardware, which includes the flat buttplate, features a similar floriated engraving found on the aforementioned components. A deep relief floral carving is located on the wrist. The buttstock also acts as the air reserve. The burled walnut veneer takedown case has brass corner protectors and is lined in royal purple velvet. The accessories include an air pump, bullet mold and spanner wrench. A brown leather case sleeve is also included. Manufacturer: French Model: Single Shot BBL: 32 1/2 inch octagon Stock: walnut Gauge: 7.65 Finish: brown/bright Grips: Serial Number: NSN Class: Antique Condition: Exceptionally fine. The barrel retains more than half original brown Damascus striping showing some thinning and some scattered minor surface rust. The remaining metal surfaces retain an overall, crisp, untouched, original, polished bright appearance. The engraving is crisp. The buttstock is very fine showing a number of minor handling marks and a 1 inch crack in the comb, with most of the finish remaining overall. The case is very good with handling/storage marks and sun faded lining. The fitted leather case sleeve is fine showing numerous handling/storage marks and wear. An exhibition quality 19th century air rifle with case and accessories reserved for European aristocrats and royalty. One may look a lifetime to find a finer example! Provenance: Robert M. Lee Collection.

  • Condition: See Description

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by Rock Island Auction Company
December 3, 2016 9:00 AM CST
7819 42nd Street West
Rock Island, IL, US 61201

Rock Island Auction Company

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$200 $499 $25
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$5,000 $9,999 $500
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