Pistol
William Smith (fl.1726-1742)
Category
Metalwork
Date
circa 1810
Materials
iron, wood, gold, horn, silver
Measurements
410 mm (Length)
Place of origin
London
Order this imageCollection
Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire
NT 980284.1
Summary
One of a pair of high quality English flintlock duelling pistols, c1810 by William Smith, London (active1748-1831).
Full description
One of a pair of high quality English flintlock duelling pistols, c1810 by William Smith, London (active1748-1831). These duelling pistols were made by Smith while at his Lisle Street address during the period 1806-16. Octagonal iron barrel of Damascus twist construction, with double-waisted breech, the makers name within a gold lined recess, “William Smith, London”. Platinum lined touch-hole and gold lined safety vents to the breech. Blade foresight and a raise rear sight. Engraved barrel tang. The under rib with 1 ramrod pipe. Retained to the stock by 1 barrel slide. One pistol with a wooden ramrod with horn tip; the other with a steel worm and brass cap. Barrel length 26cm. Calibre 12.5mm. Walnut half stock with chequered grip, and flattened plain pommel. Engraved steel furniture comprising; spurred trigger guard with pineapple finial and 1 ramrod pipe. Horn fore-end cap. Silver escutcheons to barrel slides. Fitted with a set trigger. Flintlock of flat form with a stepped tail, engraved and signed William Smith, Lisle Street, London. Sliding bolt safety catch behind cock. Waterproof pan and anti-friction roller to feather spring. The cock jaws retaining the original flint and leather packing; the lock also retaining some original colour. Retained to the stock by 1 sidenail. Overall length: 41cm
Provenance
Formerly on loan but purchased on 26th September 2008 from Mrs Mary Henry on behalf of the Clive Family.
Marks and inscriptions
Barrel top in gold lined cartouche: W.Smith, London Lockplate: William Smith, Lisle Street, London
Makers and roles
William Smith (fl.1726-1742), gunsmith
References
Blackmore, 1986: Howard Blackmore: A Dictionary of London Gunmakers 1350-1850