A rare flintlock breechloader pistol, "La Chaumette"... Lot n° 2030

Two-stage smooth-bore barrel, octagonal then round, with a slight cannon muzzle. In 13 mm calibre. The chamber lock with a vertical screw bolt which can be wound down using the trigger guard. Finely engraved flintlock, the lock plate signed "Brion à Paris". The half stock made of beautifully carved walnut, with iron and brass furniture. The pommel in the shape of an eagle's head with delicately engraved plumage. Length 37.5 cm. Members of the gunsmith family Brion are documented in Paris from about 1705 to 1747. Provenance: By all accounts, the pistol came from the armoury of Frederick Augustus I, Elector of Saxony. Thereafter W.G. Renwick Collection, Keith Neal Collection. Auction 6542 at Christie's London, lot 249. On display in the City Art Museum, St. Louis, Missouri, 1939. Condition: II