Welcome to at present’s Picture of the Day! Right here we now have 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 out there, or fashionable pinfire cartridges when it was. The conversion elements retailer within the inventory compartment, making it an entire system.
The ornament is extreme in the easiest way. Gold scrollwork inhabited by canines 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 in depth 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 probably 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 incorporates loading and upkeep instruments, exhibiting this was meant as an entire presentation piece reasonably than only a wall hanger. Thomas was proving French gunmaking may match English and Belgian high quality whereas including distinctively French inventive prospers. European gunmaking at its most ornamental – practical artwork meant to impress rich sportsmen and exhibition judges alike.
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“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.
