L. PEYROT PARIS (AU HAVRE) Fine French Percussion Double Shotgun – Circa 1855–1865 – Damascus Barrels – Exceptional Original Condition

Description:

L. PEYROT PARIS (AU HAVRE) Fine French Percussion Double Shotgun – Circa 1855–1865 – Damascus Barrels – Exceptional Original Condition
Offered here is an exceptionally handsome and highly original mid-19th century French percussion sporting shotgun by L. Peyrot, retailed by Tuebeuf, Rue St. Jacques, Paris, with the elegant gold-inlaid retailer's marking "Au Havre." This is a fine example of the quality sporting arms produced in France during the Second Empire and represents the craftsmanship for which the Paris gun trade was renowned.
Unlike many surviving percussion doubles that have been refinished, altered, or assembled from mismatched parts, this shotgun retains an outstanding degree of originality. The wood-to-metal fit remains excellent throughout, the engraving is crisp and untouched, and the gun exhibits the honest patina that advanced collectors seek.
The beautifully figured walnut stock retains its original hand-cut checkering, which remains remarkably sharp with well-defined diamonds and crisp borders. The stock has never been heavily sanded, preserving its original dimensions and elegant architecture. It shows only the normal handling marks expected from a well-cared-for sporting arm that is approximately 160 years old.
The finely engraved back-action locks feature graceful French scrollwork surrounding a distinctive sunburst motif, repeated throughout the gun on the trigger guard tang, breech tang, buttplate tang, and escutcheons. The engraving is tastefully executed and remains sharp with no evidence of buffing or refinishing.
The Damascus barrels retain an attractive, even brown patina, with the pattern still visible beneath the surface. The barrels appear full length with their original rib and front sight intact. The original wooden ramrod is present and correctly fitted—a feature frequently missing on percussion sporting guns of this period.
Mechanically, the locks are crisp with strong mainsprings, and both hammers hold securely at full cock and release properly. The nipples appear to be quality period replacements or originals in excellent condition.
Features

• Maker: L. Peyrot
• Retailer: Tuebeuf, Rue St. Jacques, Paris
• Gold-inlaid "Au Havre" marking
• Manufactured approximately 1855–1865
• Fine French percussion sporting double shotgun
• Original Damascus barrels
• Original engraved steel furniture
• Beautifully figured walnut stock
• Sharp original hand-cut checkering
• Original engraved steel buttplate
• Original ramrod included
• Excellent wood-to-metal fit
• Crisp, untouched engraving throughout
• Honest untouched collector condition
• Both barrel are modified.
• Barrels are 29 1/2"
• LOP 14" to forward trigger
• Heal 3 1/2"
• Comb 2 1/2"
• Weight 7lbs 1oz.

Condition
Overall condition is best described as Very Good Plus to Excellent for its age. The gun has clearly escaped the heavy restoration commonly encountered on antique percussion doubles. Metal surfaces display an attractive aged patina, the wood retains its original finish with normal handling marks, and the engraving remains exceptionally crisp. This is precisely the type of untouched originality that serious collectors appreciate.
Collector's Notes
French sporting arms from this period were produced in relatively limited numbers compared to their English contemporaries and are becoming increasingly difficult to locate in high original condition. Guns retaining their original Damascus barrels, original ramrod, sharp checkering, matching engraved furniture, and excellent overall originality are seldom encountered.
This shotgun would make a wonderful addition to an advanced collection of antique sporting arms, French firearms, or high-quality percussion doubles. It displays beautifully and represents the elegance and refinement of the Paris gunmaking trade during the golden age of muzzle-loading sporting firearms.
A truly attractive, highly original French sporting double that would be difficult to upgrade.  (I can send more photos just limited to 15)
Price: $5750 
 

Shipping $150 hard case and insured. 

 

Antique: Yes
Shotgun Gauge: 12 Gauge

Price: $5,750.00
Shipping: $150.00