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J. PURDEY
A .500/.450 HAMMER RIFLE, NO. 9015, BUILT FOR HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES
28 1/2-inch barrels with full length damascus rib, with folding leaf sight to 250, the rounded frame, non- rebounding back lock, bolted hammers and rotary underlever/trigger guard with fine scroll engraving and retaining traces of original hardening colour, fences with side clips, 14 1/4-inch figured stock with cheekpiece and engraved steel butt plate, the silver escutcheon with presentation inscription E T Rose XRH, From HRH The Prince of Wales, Terrai, Feb 28th 1876, 9lb. 15oz., black powder proof
The maker confirms that the rifle was built in 1873 for HRH The Prince of Wales.
VAT @ 5% is payable on the hammer price.
The Prince of Wales departed for an epic eight month tour of India in 1875, returning in 1876. Chapter X "Sport Abroad: The Indian Tour" of Alfred Watson's classic "King Edward VII as a Sportsman" covers this in detail, most notably the month spent hunting tigers in the Terrai. This rifle, the Prince's own, was used extensively during this time and at the end of the month presented to Lieutenant E T Rose of the 10th Hussars, The Prince of Wales' own regiment. The Hussars accompanied the Prince during his visit and were involved in many of the ceremonies associated with the State visit. |
Sold for £7000
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| Fine Modern and Vintage Sporting Guns |
| Sotheby's, New Bond Street |
| 20 April 2011 |
| Commission is 25% ex. VAT. Artist's Resale Right may apply |
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