Welcome to as we speak’s Photo of the Day! Right here we’ve an 1854 Thomas of Paris exhibition shotgun that showcases French gunmaking at its peak – elaborate gold inlay work, Damascus barrels by Albert Bernard, and twin ignition functionality for each percussion caps and pinfire cartridges. Thomas constructed this shotgun in the course of the transition between percussion and self-contained cartridges. The twin ignition system let shooters use both know-how – percussion caps when pinfire ammunition wasn’t obtainable, or fashionable pinfire cartridges when it was. The conversion components retailer within the inventory compartment, making it an entire system.
The ornament is extreme in one of the best ways. Gold scrollwork inhabited by canine and birds covers the metalwork, with a leaping roebuck on the set off guard and snake design on the lever. The Damascus barrels have gold inlays on the muzzles, breeches, and rib. Even the inventory obtained intensive gold wire inlays with engraved foliate accents. Thomas held the title of gunmaker to the King of Sweden and Norway, marked contained in the case lid: “THOMAS BREVETE/ARQ.R DE S,M, LE ROI DE SUEDE ET DE NORVEGE.” This shotgun was doubtless constructed for exhibition on the 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris, following the well-known 1851 Nice Exhibition in London the place European gunmakers competed to outdo one another.
The fitted takedown case accommodates loading and upkeep instruments, exhibiting this was meant as an entire presentation piece quite than only a wall hanger. Thomas was proving French gunmaking may match English and Belgian high quality whereas including distinctively French inventive thrives. European gunmaking at its most ornamental – purposeful artwork meant to impress rich sportsmen and exhibition judges alike.
Most of our POTDs make the most of photographs from our mates at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms public sale in america. Take a while to browse their current auctions – who is aware of, possibly you’ll discover a piece of historical past to take dwelling!
“Twin Ignition Double Barrel Shotgun from Thomas of Paris.” Rock Island Public sale, www.rockislandauction.com/element/4095/1266/dual-ignition-double-barrel-shotgun-from-thomas-of-paris. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.
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