A Superb Flintlock Blunderbuss Pistol by Blanch of London. With two-stage brass barrel turned and belled at the muzzle, octagonal breech engraved London on the top flat and fitted above with a sprung bayonet and stamped with Birmingham Proofs and Barrel smiths mark, border engraved tang decorated with foliage and fitted with bayonet catch, signed, stepped, bevelled lock, decorated with foliage at the tail and a starburst at the pan, fitted with a sliding safety catch, figured full-stock with rounded butt, brass trigger guard with pineapple finial and engraved with a martial trophy on the bow, vacant brass escutcheon, and original brass tipped ramrod.

BLANCH

John born 1784. Apprenticed to Jackson Mortimer, 1800; free of Farriers Co. 1811. Elected Assistant, 1827; Master 1834. Married his masters daughter, Ann, and established business, 1809. Worked first for John Manton and then in partnership with father-in-law as Mortimer & Blanch, 1811-12. Gunmaker, 39 Fish Street Hill, 1813-25; 29 Gracechurch Street., 1826-48. At 25 Hanover St. Camberwell, 1841 Census (age 57). With son William, became John Blanch & Son. 

Howard L. Blackmore (1986) Gunmakers Of London, 1350-1850. George Shumway Publisher. USA.

Dimensions:

Bore: N/A

Barrel Length: 6 Inches (15.24 cm)   

Overall Length: 10.5 Inches (26.67 cm)