140 | A distinguished pair of French flintlock pistols by Nicolas Noël Boutet, Manufacture de Versailles, circa 1800 Octagonal barrels in 13 mm calibre, slightly swamped, with dovetailed iron front sights, patent breechblocks and hair rifling. The tops of the barrels lavishly inlaid in gold with stars and vase-shaped ornaments on a fine matt background. Each stamped with three marks, “BG”, “NB” and “LG” for Nicolas Boutet, at the breeches (see Stöckel No. 95). The flintlocks chiselled with fine floral engraving, frizzens on rollers and gold-plated firing pans. The signature “Boutet Directeur Artiste” and “Manufre à Versailles” engraved on the lock plates. Set triggers, the lock action of one pistol fatigued. Walnut stocks, finely chequered grips, the blued and somewhat abraded iron furniture engraved with delicate floral ornaments. Original ramrods with ivory tips and iron bullet pullers. In beautiful condition, some of the iron parts re-blued, one barrel wedge is missing, the grip of one pistol with a repaired crack, small tension cracks here and there. Length of each 32 cm. After marrying the daughter of Sieur Desainte in 1788, Nicolas Noël Boutet (1761 - 1833) was granted the title of “Directeur Artiste” in a decree dated 23 August 1792. In 1794, he was given responsibility for deluxe weapons. Attention: This lot can only be shipped within the European Union. 303750 II - € 20.000
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