2 numbered 50 cal dueling pistols with Arabic engraving in gold on barrels. 18 inches long. The pistols have a historic Arabic writing that dates back to ancient times.
18 inches long
The pistols were purchased from an estate, from a collector. The pistols are dueling pistols with 1&2 on the top of the barrel. The pistols were flint, later converted to percussion.
Dear David,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
The presented object appears to be a pair of Ottoman transition percussion lock pistols (Kubur) with a powder horn. The pistols had a flintlock and were changed to a percussion lock system. The nut wood stock is decorated with carvings and brass appliques. The barrels are richly decorated with etchings and brass inlay work depicting Arabian calligraphy. These are probably verses from the Quran. These pair are no dueling pistols because they have notch and bead sights. The powder horn was made out of a calabash and has also metal appliques. This set was probably made in the late 18th or the first half of the 19th century. The powder horn could be made later.
Comparable objects were recently offered and sold on the international auction market.
This piece is in good condition and no severe damage is visible in the images provided.
A fair market estimation would be between 600 to 1.200 USD.
This estimate is based on actual recent past recorded auction sales of comparable items. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and may vary.
With kind regards,
George