Engraved Jno. Rigby & Co. and J. Purdey 4-Bore Percussion Dangerous Game Rifle

This impressive 19th century dangerous game rifle features a Damascus barrel signed "J. PURDEY. OXFORD STREET, LONDON" on top with a dovetailed blade front, four-leaf rear sight graduated out to 200 yards, casehardened breech plug with scroll engraving as well as an inlaid silver band and silver plug, London proof marks, and "3305" marked breech hook. The lower tang has serial number "13974". The flat detented lock is also marked "13974" and is signed "Jno Rigby & Co" and has a sliding safety ahead of the hammer and scroll and border engraving. The blued mounts are engraved en suite, and the half-stock has a horn forend cap, panels of checkering, drop flats, and 13 5/8 inch length of pull. Rifles of this sort were used by Frederick Selous and other British big game hunters in Africa and India in the 19th century. Norman R. Blank's receipt for the rifle from Jackson Arms on August 11, 1964, accompanies the rifle.

Condition: Fine with 90% plus of the re-browned finish and distinct Damascus patterns on the barrel, minor oxidation, light original case colors on the lock, 90% original blue finish on the buttplate, and mostly smooth brown patina on the balance. The re-oiled stock is also fine and has crisp checkering and minor wear. Mechanically fine. Overall, a very impressive large bore rifle.