A significant collection of antique English pistols is to be auctioned at Bonhams
A hidden collection of pistols has come to light following the announcement of Bonhams Antique Arms and Armoursale on April 18, 2012.
The pistols belonging to Sir James Hope Grant
The pistols were collected by Norman H. Dixon, who passed away in 2011. The collector, who was described as a "discreet but distinguished" enthusiast of antique arms, published the book Georgian Pistols, The Art and Craft of the Flintlock Pistol, 1715-1840, in 1971. There are 30 exquisite and historically significant pistols in the collection, ranging in price from 1,000-60,000. Perhaps the most exciting lot is a beautiful pair of silver-mounted flintlock duelling pistols, believed to have belonged to General Sir James Hope Grant. General Grant served with distinction in the first Opium War and rose to Major General during the suppression of the Indian Mutiny. Made in 1768, the pair are estimated to sell at 25,000-35,000.
The lot expected to achieve the highest sale price is a fine pair of 18-bore holster pistols which were presented to Sir John Rushout, a former Member of Parliament. They were given as a gift to the "Father of the House" following his retirement from the House of Commons in 1768. The exquisite design of these pistols features delicate silver inlays and engraving, with depictions of the Greek goddess Diana and Achteon from Ovid's Metamorphoses. They are expected to make 40,000-60,000 at auction in London later this month. Paul Fraser Collectibles has a range of historically significant militaria for those looking to invest in British military history; this Oliver Cromwell Signaturerepresents a controversial figure in the English Civil War.
