An artisan gun maker signed this fine black powder pistol on the lock plate, but it is somewhat indistinguishable today. We see it as "Cu... a Nattlis", difficult even if you read French. The beauty of this smaller size flintlock firearm is in its ornamentation and overall composition. The relief carving on the trigger guard has a mix of an axe polearm with helmet, shield, flag and floral devices, and the long run of under the grip is marked with three proof stamps: a ball peen hammer, a curving dagger and a circle deep set within another.
ice relief carving above and below complement the hardwood of the weapon. The Brass barrel has some incised engraving as well, but the most desirable feature of the pistol is the white brass eagle head of the grip's butt cap. Full beaked, wide eyed and fine line feathers carry off this avian's appearance, signifying ownership by a French military officer. While the flintlock hammer mechanism is not original to the firearm, this is not an uncommon replacement piece even its period of use. This is a fine early pistol with unique character.
