Beschreibung:

.70 caliber, 8.5625" barrels. Massive cased pair of over-under deeply rifled Belgian percussion pistols made for Gastine-Renette and given by Napoleon III as President of the French Republic to Albert La Rouviere at Saint-Cyr on his graduation from the military college of France. The massive and elegant pistols with engraved back action locks finished in French grey. The long heavily rifled barrels with liege proofs are signed "FNI. P. Gastine-Renette, Paris." The walnut butts finely checkered with steel butt trap and lanyard loop. Interior of case has a dramatic gilt presentation reading "Donne par Monsieur le President de la Republique a leleve Albert La Rouvierre St. Cyr 2 Setembre 1850." French fitted case contains all original accessories, including mold, mallet, rods, screwdriver, cap box, boxes, and jags. Albert La Rouvierre enjoyed a distinguished career in the military, and was awarded the Legion of Honor on 1885. A most impressive presidential presentation set of pistols to an important person in the history of France. Condition: Back action locks have no pitting or corrosion. Barrels have all of a period re-brown finish. Pistols show little to no use, nipples still have much of original finish, actions are extremely crisp. Fired blue ramrods appear to be original. Both pistols in virtually identical condition. Stocks have most of their original varnish. Exterior of original case in excellent condition with only minor veneer lifting and much original finish. Interior of the case has a faded purplish-brown felt lining the lid.