^Lot 4309 PAIR OF IRISH MAN STOPPING FLINTLOCK GREATCOAT

PISTOLS BY CLARKE. Cal. 65 (both). S# NSN (both). Nicholas Clarke worked in Dublin between 1788-1811 and is undoubtedly ably the maker of these pistols. The 6" swamped octagon barrels are engraved "CLARKE DUBLIN" on top flats. Locks with flat plates are fitted with serpentine cocks with back sliding safetys, semi-waterproof pans, bridled roller frizzens with rollers on feather springs. Lock plates are engraved with feather borders around "CLARKE DUBLIN". Walnut stocks with uncheckered bag grips extend to muzzles. They attach to barrels with sidebolts without escutcheons. Trigger guards are unengraved and have pineapple finials. Small silver caps on butts are engraved "JRP" (?). Rosewood ramrods with horn tips mount through beaded steel pipes and matching thimbles. CONDITION: very good as refinished. Iron and steel parts with re-browned barrels, torch colored locks and furniture are smooth and without pitting. Stocks have old oil refinish over scattered marks and dings and are sound. Bores are good; lightly pitted. Locks are good, with working safetys. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Nicholas Apergis. (01-27544/MGM). ANTIQUE. $1,500-2,500.