A rare flintlock duck's foot pistol, Stanton of... Lot n° 2035

The four round, turn-off barrels arranged in a fan shape, segmented by bands, with cannon muzzles. Smooth bores in 16 mm calibre. The broad chamber block and the roots of the barrels numbered "1-4", London acceptance marks struck on the underside. Engraved frame with central cock, the frizzen with triple pierced pan. The signature "Stanton - London" engraved on the side. Walnut grip with fine inlays of silver wire (defects), the silver butt cap with a mascaron. Length 31 cm. An early specimen of a volley pistol, in which all four barrels were fired simultaneously. This rare pistol type was used to enable individuals to defend themselves against large groups or to keep them in check. These pistols were popular with naval officers and the like as a method of intimidating mutinous sailors on vessels. Jonathan Stanton is known to have been a gun maker in London from 1748 to 1767. Condition: II -