Engraved Holland & Holland Sidelock Ejector Dangerous Game Double Rifle

For nearly 200 years Holland & Holland have been a world leader in the building of fine arms, creating some of the most attractive guns and rifles ever crafted. This massive .577 Nitro Express double rifle is a standout example even among their fine wares, exuding class and style while also packing enough power to take any game on earth in an astonishing well-handling package. These .577 Nitro rifles are truly a sight to behold, and this example would be at home in even the most advanced collections of European sporting arms. This rifle was completed with blued steel chopperlump barrels featuring a ramp style foresight with Holland's flip-up white moon sight, front sling swivel, and a gold centerlined two-leaf (one standing, one folding) rear sight on the matted rear quarter rib which is marked with "577 NITRO" in gold inlay ahead of the rear sight and a flourish of floral scroll engraving at the base. The barrels show "HOLLAND & HOLLAND" and "33 BRUTON STREET, LONDON." signatures in gold lettering on the right and left respectively, 2 inch wedges of scroll engraving at either breech, and "'ROYAL DE LUXE PRESENTATION GRADE'" inscribed on the sunken portion of the top rib. The rifle also features chambers with automatic ejectors and 1992 dated London proof marks on the flats. The barrels are fitted to a stunning brushed bright bolstered sidelock action with a hidden third bite and carved fences and bolsters. The action shows magnificently well executed deep relief floral scroll engraving over a darkened background which surrounds "HOLLAND & HOLLAND" signatures on either side of the action bar and a trio of truly stunning game scenes before extending onto the toplever, triggerguard, the extended top tang, and the bottom tang, which shows the serial number in fine gold inlays. The game scenes consist of a heard of African elephants trumpeting and marching across the savanna on the left lockplate, a roaring mail lion on the underside facing the observer, and a bull rhinoceros facing the observer with a pair of egrets taking flight. All three game scenes are cut in exceptionally high, photo realistic detail with each scene being a work of art unto itself. The engraving is signed "P.COGGAN" at the bottom of the two scenes on the lockplates for English Master Engraver Phil Coggan, one of the world's foremost master engravers who can be counted amongst the very best in the world to put graver to steel. The rifle features bushed firing pins, gold centerlined cocking indicators, mixed bright and nitre blued action pins, right hand rolled triggerguard, double triggers (front is articulated), and a tang mounted automatic safety with gold inlaid "SAFE" indicator. The rifle is fitted with a beautiful exhibition quality forend with double line bordered multi-point checkering and matching brushed bright and engraved forend iron including the Anson button style release. The pistol grip stock is of the same exceptional quality and shows teardrop carved drop points, brushed bright and engraved trapdoor grip cap (with spare foresight), a shadowline cheekpiece, blank gold inscription oval, rear sling swivel, and a leather covered recoil pad. Included is a gorgeous oak and ostrich leather Holland & Holland takedown case by Master Casemaker Vincent Rickards. The case is French fitted and lined in green goat skin with gilded lettering and borders, and ebony marquetry in the corners. The case also contains a full compliment of horn and nickel silver accoutrements by the late Mike Marsh. Protected by a padded vinyl slip cover. The brass case disk on top of the removable case lid is engraved with the monogram "RLM". It is a case truly worthy of the rifle that it safeguards. Length of pull 15 1/2 inches. Weight 13 lbs. 8 oz.

Condition: Excellent overall, retaining 99% original blue and brushed bright finishes, a tiny patch of thinning near the left breech, slight plum hue on the barrels, a few tiny marks on the wood, and sharp fine checkering on the stock and forend. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are also excellent. This is a fabulous opportunity to own an absolutely stunning work of firearms art made by one of the finest firms on earth and engraved by one of the best to ever practice the art. Do not let this chance pass you by!