Very decorative 19th Century Balkan/Turkish flintlock pistol. Caliber: 16 mm. The style of the pistol reflects both, Oriental and European influences. Nice, round barrel with floral style engraving. French style lock plate with some engraving. French style, very good quality flintlock. These parts were very often imported to Turkey from Western Europe. Typical Balkan style stock decorated with inlaid wire and iron plates. Iron counter plate, trigger guard and butt. The latter displays nice engravings. Simple wooden ramrod. The pistols of this pattern were used extensively in many wars in the Balkans, including the Greek uprisings. CONDITION: The pistol is in overall fine condition. All the iron parts of the pistol, including the barrel, are covered with nice, uniform light patina. The stock is in very good condition with some minor handling marks and light dings. There is a crack on the left side of the stock, just above the counter plate (please, see pictures). Some minor wear to the decorations on the stock, with a couple of small pieces of wire missing. The left side of the stock shows some wood filling material (just above the butt). The lock works fine. The bore is in very good condition. Attractive 19th century Balkan/Turkish flintlock pistol! Overall length: 19.25 inch. Barrel length: 11.5 inch. (Ref. "Islamic Weapons. Maghrib to Moghul", by Anthony C. Tirri, pp.161-165)
