^Lot 2394 FINE ITALIAN O/U FLINTLOCK FOWLER BY CASTIGLIONE.

Cal. 18 bore. S# NSN. The 36" damascus barrels have fluted breech section and are unmarked. Matching breech iron has broad "U" notch rear sight. Locks with deep chamfered and rounded plates have teats at rear and are fitted with serpentine cocks, gull wing type semi-waterproof pans, bridled friction frizzens and feather springs with multi-turned finials. Right plate is engraved "Castiglione G" left "a Brescia" (working 1760-1800). Half stock of burl figured light colored European walnut measures 13-5/8" over heavy brass buttplate with foliate top tang. Other furniture is also brass with heavy trigger guard having unengraved foliate finial and barrel attaching bands with fancy filed borders. Deep fancy border checkering is at grip and around forend. A squared sling loop is on toeline with matching loop on front barrel mount. CONDITION: very good to fine. Iron and steel parts show cleaning to mottled silver gray. Stock retains most of its original finish with many nicks and bumps. Checkering is moderately worn with some compressions. Brass is nicely toned. Bores are bright and shiny with some minor frosting toward muzzles. Locks are very fine and show no repairs or replaced parts. Front sling loop broken on one side. PROVENANCE: from the renowned collection of quality sporting arms from Lewis Drake together with inventory of Lewis Drake Associates. (01-28545/MGM). ANTIQUE. $2,500-4,500.