Japanese Tanegashima (matchlock rifle). Excellent condition. Barrel length 41” and 53” overall length. This very fine matchlock is embellished with brass engraved with billowing cloud on the comb and on the underside of the stock from the trigger guard to 19” in front of the trigger guard. Wick holder in the stock has a brass and copper multi floral design. The barrel is seated at the breech in a brass collar with an engraved flower cart. The barrel at the breech is inlaid in silver and brass with undulating waves with silver crests and dots of silver spray moving forward to the rear sight area. There is a silver dragon with a ken sword dipping in and out of the clouds with his head surfacing just in front of the rear sight. Muzzle is an octagonal tulip design as seen on most Japanese Matchlock rifles. The action works perfectly and the condition is super. This is one of the best Japanese Matchlock rifles we have owned both for condition and elegance. Just beautiful! Manufactured circa 1750-1800.