Belgian Large Bore Underhammer Pepperbox by Gilles Mariette of Liege

Description:
NSN, .45 Caliber, 2 3/4" barrels with fine, bright bores. This is an attractive pistol, with an impressively over-sized barrel cluster that has six turn-off barrels that have an intricate Damascus pattern, and numbered 1 through 6 on both the tubes and base. The metal has an overall bright gray patina throughout, with some darker plum-brown freckling in spots, especially on and around the percussion nipples and rotating base. Nicely executed floral scrollwork engraving is present on the rather svelte cylindrical frame, and a small maker’s mark is present on the inside strap of the bag-shaped grips: "MARIETTE / BREVETE." The walnut grips are in very good shape and have numerous minor handling marks in the thick, added varnish on either side. The action is functional, however the barrels do not always time correctly. Gilles Mariette was a Liege maker who was active 1832 & 1865, and held several patents, including revolving pistols. This is a great looking continental pepperbox, and is in very good plus condition overall. Antique;

Antique: Yes

Price: $1,995.00