Exceptional Placido Zuloaga Exhibition Quality Gold and Silver Damascene Pinfire Revolver Inscribed to Spanish Duke Luis de Villarroel Offered here is a pinfire revolver with stunning exhibition quality damascene embellishment by famed Spanish damascener Placido Zuloaga and inscribed to a member of Spanish nobility, Luis de Villarroel. As a technique, damascene involves inlaying gold, silver, or copper on the surface of iron, steel, bronze, or brass. The art form takes its name from Damascus, a Syrian city celebrated for its damascened wares as early as the 12th century. Collectors prize damascene for its intricate designs and beauty, such as this piece. The period gold and silver damascene on this revolver covers nearly all of the metal surfaces and consists of floral and scroll motifs throughout and grotesque faces on the cylinder. The top of the barrel is signed "PLACIDO ZULOAGA EN EIBAR" in gold inside a gold outlined panel. Placido Zuloaga (1834-1910) is widely credited for bringing about a damascene renaissance in Spain in the mid-1850s. Zuloaga enjoyed tremendous success; internationally recognized as a master artisan and awarded 36 gold medals in international competitions. His son, Ignacio Zuloaga, established himself as one of Spain's most important painters at the turn of the century. The back strap is inscribed "D. Luis de Villarroel DUQUE D LA CONQUISTA" in gold. Villarroel (1831-1893), also found under the alternative spelling of Villaroel, was the Duque de la Conquista (Duke of the Conquest) from 1858 until his death 1893. He was succeeded by his niece. The Duchy of the Conquest is a Spanish nobility title that dates back to 1735 when first held by Pedro de Castro under the title Duca Della Conquista. Without descendants the Duca Della Conquista title was vacant and was rehabilitated in the House of Villarroel in 1847. The relief carved grips feature floral patterns and the head of a mythical beast. The grip screw head and escutcheons also feature the damascene pattern. A lanyard ring is mounted on the butt cap. Manufacturer: European Model: Pinfire BBL: 6 3/8 inch part octagon Stock: Gauge: 11 mm Finish: gold/silver Grips: antique ivory Serial Number: 5 Class: Antique Condition: Very fine. The revolver retains 98% plus of the intricate damascened embellishment. The grips are also very fine with a crisp carving. Mechanically excellent. A true example of firearm art created by noted Spanish damascener Placido Zuloaga with the added bonus of being inscribed to a Spanish nobleman!

  • Condition: See Description

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

We will arrange for packing and shipping at our earliest possible convenience. We will attempt to ship as soon as possible, however, due to the huge volume of absentee bidders, delays in shipping of seven days after full payment is received by us is typical. In the case of crating or any exceptional packaging, the buyer will be charged our cost from outside agents. Buyer pays all shipping and insurance charges.

by Rock Island Auction Company
April 14, 2018 9:00 AM CDT
7819 42nd Street West
Rock Island, IL, US 61201

Rock Island Auction Company

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 21.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000