2350

LEBANON SCHOOL RELIEF CARVED RIFLE ATTRIBUTED TO J.P. BECK.

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:17,500.00 USD Estimated At:35,000.00 - 55,000.00 USD
LEBANON SCHOOL RELIEF CARVED RIFLE ATTRIBUTED TO J.P. BECK.
NSN. 47" oct to round 65 Cal. smooth unsigned bbl. Rifle has a typical Beck Family whale's tail engraved brass four piece patchbox. Rivet which holds the patchbox latch is found in the upper rear corner of the lid, and pressure on a stud in the buttplate releases the patchbox latch. It is interesting to note the compartment under the patchbox door is a full 1" deep. Gun is 1-3/4" wide at the butt and the sideplate and furniture are not engraved. Ramrod pipes are short and have heavy molded ends. Trigger guard has two deep filed lines used by Bonewitz to form a molding across its forward end. Gun has crisp relief carving forward and rear of the cheekpiece and around the bbl tang with incised carving forward of the trigger guard and on each side of the rear ramrod entrance pipe. The stock is curly maple and appears to be sound throughout. Early hand-forged lock is unmarked on the outside but is marked with the initial "W.L." in a cartouche on the inside. John Phillip Beck worked from the late 1760's until his death in 1811. His gunsmith career extended from 1781-1810 in Lebanon County. Patchbox and carving side of this rifle are very similar to Kindig's rifle number 100, which is signed by Beck. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Douglas Sirkin. CONDITION: Glued 6" age crack above the right hand side of the first ramrod ferrule. Lock has been reconverted and is stamped "W. L." inside. There is an old repair at the wrist. The gun appears to be in fine original condition throughout. 4-49880 RG36