Austrian Percussion Horseman's Pistol (AH3255)

Austrian Horseman's Pistol by Caspar Zellner of Salzburg, Circa 1680-1700. Gun was converted to percussion at a later period. The name Houel on the lock is that of a French gun maker working approximately 1725. Gun was a flintlock and possibly the Houel name is of another maker during the percussion period. Barrel is 13" and overall 21". The side plate is inlaid into the stock with open panels and has 3 stylized serpent heads. Brass furniture has a mellow patina. Barrel has its original brown striping done at the time of conversion. The lock has very good case colors. The barrel is gold inlaid with the Caspar Zellner name and fine line flourishes. The front and rear sights are chiseled. Wood has no cracks or chips and was a full stock pistol as a flintlock no doubt and was expertly made into a half stock again at the time of conversion. This is a very handsome pistol with elegant form.