*French, c.1740, Double-Barrelled Flintlock Sporting Gun, by Jean-Baptiste La Roche, Arquebusier du Roi to Louis XV (Obsolete Calibre)*
An exceptional mid-18th-century French double-barrelled flintlock sporting gun, attributed to the Parisian Jean-Baptiste La Roche, Arquebusier du Roi to Louis XV of France.
Measuring approximately 125 cm overall, with 84.7 cm barrels of octagonal-to-round form, the piece is joined by a raised central rib inlaid near the muzzle with a gold flechette sight line — a hallmark of the finest Parisian court firearms. The vent bushes retain visible traces of gold-lining, a rare and prestigious feature designed to protect the touch-holes from corrosion and denote luxury manufacture. The breech is stamped with a Crown over “AM” inspector’s or control mark, accompanied by the hand-stamped number 25 (or 26), consistent with mid-18th-century Paris proof and guild inspection marks. Twin flintlocks of superb quality, with swan-necked cocks, roller frizzens and finely engraved plates, remain mechanically crisp on both half- and full-cock. The double-set triggers are mounted in an engraved steel guard with foliate finial.
The walnut full stock is exquisitely carved: deep acanthus scrolls to the fore-end, finely chequered wrist, and a beautifully modelled lion-mask carving to the grip — a feature frequently found on Parisian court arms associated with La Roche. The gun is fitted with silver mounts including engraved butt-plate, heel, escutcheon and tang, decorated in Rococo floral motifs. Original sling swivels and iron ramrod are retained.
Markings: Breech: Crown over “AM” (Paris inspection mark); Beneath: hand-stamped number “25” (or “26”); Barrel rib: Gold-inlaid flechette sight line; Locks and mounts: finely engraved with floral motifs characteristic of Parisian Rococo styling.
Historical Note: Jean-Baptiste La Roche, Arquebusier du Roi for Louis XV of France, was one of the most celebrated gunmakers of the 18th century. His official residence and workshop were located at the Louvre Palace, a distinction granted only to the foremost artists and craftsmen serving the Crown. Between 1740 and 1742, La Roche presided as Head of the Paris Gunmakers’ Guild, and his royal appointment and Louvre residence were formally confirmed in 1743.
Renowned in his own lifetime as the finest firearms manufacturer in France, La Roche produced guns both for the King’s personal use and as diplomatic gifts to foreign monarchs and noble patrons. Firearms by Jean-Baptiste La Roche and his son Jean La Roche survive in the private collections of King Charles X of France and King George III of Great Britain, as well as in the Wallace Collection (London) and the Musée de l’Armée (Paris).
While this example is unsigned, its carved lion-mask wrist, gold-inlaid rib, gold-lined vent bushes, Rococo white metal mounts and the quality of carving, finish and material refinement correspond closely with known La Roche masterpieces.
*Condition* Very fine condition throughout. Steel surfaces with pleasing aged patina, gold detailing still visible at vents and rib. Locks hold firmly and spark well. Stock crisp with rich polish and sharp carving, silver mounts intact with light tarnish. Mechanically sound and complete with original ramrod. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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