Name/Title
Pistol, DuelingEntry/Object ID
2016.187.0001Description
One matched pair of dueling pistols in a mahogany case with accessories. The stocks of the two guns are a dark wood, probably walnut, that is incised with a cross hatch deisgn on the grips. The butts of both stocks are incised with a star pattern. The barrels are octagonal and engraved "HW Mortimer Gunmaker to His Majesty". They also have sights near the locks and at the end of the barrels.Gun 2016.187.0001A has a percussion lock and a wooden ramrod mounted under the barrel in two brass tubes. Gun 2016.187.0001B is missing its lock and ramrod. Both guns have trigger guards that end in ornate finials and are decoratively incised. Both gun barrels are held in place with two brass pins each. The case (2016.187.0001C) is s mahogany and has a brass D shaped handle set into the lid that is recessed to be flush the surface of the lid. The case has two hook closures and a key lock mounted into the front of it. The inside of the case is divided into compartments for each gun, etc. The case is lined with a gros grain green fabric that appears to be wool or animal fiber based. On the inside of the lid is a manufacturer's label that shows two men in hunting apparel with long guns anf various hunting items. The label reads "H.W. Mortimer, Gunmaker to His Majesty, 89 Fleet street London. Wholesale, Retail, & For Exportation" Glued to the top of the label is a sm all typed label that reads "Dueiling Pistols presented to Henry Clay by 'Lord Morton'. There are small lidded compartments in the upper left and lower right corners of the case for ammunition, etc. Each lid has a small brass ring pull. Inside the case is a device (2016.187.0001D) for mesuring powder. It looks like a small cannon but it has a small thumb screw on the top and slides to adjust. It is marked in increments for various amounts of powder. Inside the case is a main spring (2016.187.0001E) possibly from one of the locks on the guns. There is also a key (2016.187.0001F) in the corner compartment at the lower left to lock the case.Material
Mahogany, Walnut, Iron, Brass
