The octagonal barrels with twelve-groove rifled bore in 11.5 mm calibre. The outer surface of the barrels covered in lavishly chiselled, decorative tendrils, the signature "Devisme à Paris" cut into the top. Stamped "No. 695, 1845" below the breech. The deeply chiselled locks with unusually smooth action. Ebony half stocks with ornately carved embellishment of grotesque masks amidst leafy vines. The heavy, silver furniture with grotesque masks and herm busts in half relief, mascarons with demons' heads on the butt caps and lock side plates. The owner's name "Ibrahim Sabri" engraved in Arabic on the trigger guard. Length of each 40 cm. In the matching case of beautifully grained walnut, a vacant brass plaque on the lid. Lockable, the original key is included. The interior lined in green velvet, "Devisme à Paris" embossed in gold in the lid. A large set of tools, the wooden parts made of finely turned and carved ebony. The bullet mould deeply chiselled with decorative tendrils, the powder flask with a solid silver body and finely engraved signature "Devisme à Paris, Rue du Helder". Dimensions of the case 8 x 46 x 25.5 cm. F.P. Devisme is documented as a gunsmith in Paris from 1834 to 1859 and was awarded a silver medal at the great Industrial Expositions in 1839 and 1841. A distinguished pistol case in exceptional quality, probably made as an exhibition piece for one of the industrial expositions in Paris.
auction: 25. September 2020
lot: 212
