A RARE OTTOMAN BALKAN MIQUELET MUSKET (TANCICA) WITH ORNATE BRASS MOUNTS

Ca. AD 1750�1850 An Ottoman Balkan long-barrelled musket, of the tancica type, featuring a slender steel barrel mounted on an elongated wooden stock with a distinctive downward-curving butt. The firearm is fitted with a miquelet lock mechanism, comprising an external cock, frizzen and associated steel fittings decorated with engraved geometric and foliate motifs. The stock is extensively embellished with richly chased brass mounts, displaying continuous bands of stylised foliage, scrolling arabesques and repeating geometric patterns. The barrel is secured by a series of decorated brass bands, while additional engraved metal fittings extend along the fore-end. The pronounced butt is covered with elaborate brass ornamentation, emphasising its characteristic Balkan form. The metal surfaces display areas of wear, oxidation and patination, while the wooden elements retain a dark brown finish. Size: 1630mm Provenance: Private London collection; US art market, before 2000. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.

Estimate:£1,500

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