750€
Toradar matchlock

Overall length
170 cm
Materials
steel, iron, hardwood, ivory
Origin
Rajasthan
Dating
late 18th to early 19th century
Provenance
Belgian antique market
A matchlock toradar fitted with a slender twisted barrel ending in a fluted swollen muzzle. The barrel attached to the stock with both wire and rattan capucines. Bilateral steel side plates with lobbed edges. The pricker holder with chevrons. The serpentine misses a jaw. The stock behind the breech is black and inlaid with ivory flowers and foliage bands. (with losses) The butt with a heart shape enclosing two flowers. Two mirrored elegant geese. The butt cap missing some ivory pieces. A tassel with Hindi writing and label. Condition is average. Pieces of ivory missing. The hardwood stock with dents and a few cracks. The barrel needs retightening because it feels a bit wobbly. Evidence of period tampering. A days work in skilful hands can return this piece to its former glory. See pictures. A similar looking piece formerly in the Jaipur arsenal. See Elgood.
- a similar Rajput example in the ballroom of the Sandringham House, Royal Collection Trust, RCIN 37986
- Lord Egerton of Tatton, Indian and Oriental Armour, p. 111 (Pl.IV.,N°, 422), '... Presented by the Rajah of Jaipur'.
- Worcester Art Museum, The John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection, 2014.693
- Robert Elgood, Firearms of the Islamic World, p. 154-155, fig. 103
Price:
750€
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