(A) JAPANESE TANEGASHIMA MATCHLOCK RIFLE.

Japan acquired firearms technology in 1543 through trade with the Portugeuse. This example with an octagonal, slightly swamped muzzle, barleycorn front sight with small silver inlay for sighting, and decorated along the length with silver inlaid designs of butterflies, tigers, brass and copper inlays of florals, and a mon over the chamber, depicting a four petal floral over a central bud, enclosed in a circle. Two piece stock with florals and a tiger on the right side. Lock of classic form with a touchmark at fore. CONDITION: Barrel with even chocolate patina, silver tarnished throughout but easily cleaned should the new owner wish. Stock is very good with some handling marks, missing rearmost inlay across stock heel and pan cover. Mechanically fine, somewhat soft. Barrel Length: 40" Caliber/Bore: .50 Smoothbore FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: Japan Model: Matchlock Paperwork: Previous Description Serial Number: NSN