Well Provenanced Painted Stock 18th Century Indian Matchlock Pistol Circa 1780

A Very Rare And Exceptionally Well Provenanced Painted Stock 18th Century Indian Matchlock Pistol Circa 1780.

11 inch likely Damascus barrel with swelling muzzle, two wedding bands, and front and rear sights. The front sight of copper. .58 bore. Pan cover missing.

Original matchlock hammer, faceted and engraved trigger. Pricker chain present, pricker missing. Silver ring for saddle carry. The exotic wood fullstock retains its original faded gold decoration covering one half of the stock, the decoration on the stock saddle behind the rear sight is still quite vivid. The stock with ovoid butt and finial decorated ensuite.

The mechanism functions perfectly. Wood ramrod fits well and may be original. This ultra rare Indian matchlock pistol still retains its lead collection tag stamped “MBR” for Martin B. Retting, one of the most well known and authoritative American collector/dealers.

Condition is good to fine overall. 20 inches overall. No comparable Indian matchlock is presently available.

Provenance: Martin B. Retting West Hollywood, CA