Cased Pair of Belgian Percussion Turn-Off Pistols

Description:
NSN, .45 Caliber, 1 3/4" barrels with very good, lightly frosted bores. This is a handsome pair of wasp-waisted pistols that have an overall pewter gray patina that have some dark spots of plum-brown freckling on the interesting reverse-tapered barrels. Both barrels have gold inlaid maker’s markings: N. VIVARIO PLOMDEUR / ABQR. Du ROI A LIÉGE" within a decorative border. N. Vivario-Plomdeur was a Liege maker active from ca. 1836 & 1863. The pistols have dainty back-action locks with intricate floral scroll engraving on the plates and hammers, with stylized thunderclouds on the nipple bolsters. The hammer of pistol "1" has a small chip missing from the flange at the nose . The fluted ebony grips are in fine shape, with only a few very minor handling marks and small surface blemishes scattered about, and the silver wire inlays opposite the locks are intact and in fine shape. The engraved scalloped metal buttcaps are likewise in fine shape. Both pistols are functional, however pistol "1" does not lock at half-cock. The pistols are housed in an unmarked period wooden case with a brown baize-lined French-fit interior. The lid has some impact damage that has cracked the wood on the front left corner, but the lining is intact and in very good condition. Some .38 caliber cast lead balls and a single cavity .31 caliber bullet mould are also included. These are very handsome pistols, with an unusual but attractive design, and are in very good condition overall. Antique;

Antique: Yes

Price: $1,595.00