From what the photos show, I'm not nearly as enthralled as I would be with other 19th century guns, specifically British "Bests".
The wood carvings shown in close-up look like novelty items, definitely "tarty". Not impressed with the metal engraving either.
As far as provenance goes, I think you should seriously think if Napoleon would really desire a google-eyed hound carved on one of his firearms.
After all you've said and shown, I still don't know if you are thinking of buying one of them, all of them or none of them.
I'm not trying to be a sarcastic cynic and deflate your high, but, like Joe, I just can't see the quality you take for granted.
Also, you've ruffled some of my feathers. Comparing this gun to a work by Monet is laughable if not contemptible.
Last edited by Krakow Kid; 03/03/11 05:40 PM.