An Indian flintlock Pistol

[VicN]

This is probably a European (French?) style stock that has been modified by someone in India. Late design of finely engraved European lock with roller bearing frizzen
The barrel is stamped E88 RAJ SARKAR TAH ? SI in Hindi and has gold inlay at the breach and muzzle. Military style attached ramrod.
The stock has Ivory inlays and the reverse has an ivory panel with Sarkar Baroda in Hindi.

 

[TobJohn]

Only 2 days and you've already become a valuable member of our community! We also have a big thread on Indian arms.

 

[rickystl]

Hi again, VicN

That is a very cool pistol. Yes, the late style flintlock puts the gun somewhere around the 1st quarter of the 1800's. Much agree, the entire pistol started life as a European make (possibly for an English officer stationed in India - East India Company ?) and later sold/traded/captured/etc. and decorated for the local taste of it's new owner. In fact, even the engraving on the lock looks like it was done at the same time during the application of the rest of the decoration. Note the engraving "style" on the brass side plate has a similar taste as the lock. It's certainly a beautiful pistol. Thanks for posting.

Rick

 

[VicN]

Hello Rick,

This pistol is a favourite of mine, it's nice to handle and the thick wall of the barrel feels very capable of a powerful shot, the word Baroda engraved on the ivory panel probably refers to the Princely state of that name, Sarkar on the barrel means government and raj means rule but also kingdom so could be used by an officer of the Maharajas palace guard or something like that.

 

[rickystl]

Hi Vic

Yes, the decoration was very tastefully done. I'm guessing the Hindi inscription might indicate it's use in Southern India.
By the way, since this is a later period flintlock, is the bore rifled or smooth bore ?

Rick

 

[VicN]

Hi Vic

Yes, the decoration was very tastefully done. I'm guessing the Hindi inscription might indicate it's use in Southern India.
By the way, since this is a later period flintlock, is the bore rifled or smooth bore ?

Rick

It's smooth bore but quite thick at the muzzle