Pistol
William Smith (fl.1726-1742)
Category
Metalwork
Date
Unknown
Materials
iron, wood, gold, silver, horn
Measurements
410 mm (Length)
Place of origin
London
Order this imageCollection
Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire
NT 980284.2
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: 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