Walking stick gun 1870-75
Steel, gold, wood, emeralds and rubies | 103.4 x 6.6 x 2.6 cm (whole object) | RCIN 11484
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A walking-stick gun made of steel overlaid with gold. It transforms into a three-section gun with sprung percussion action and concealed sprung trigger cocked by pulling the handle back. The barrel section unscrews to reveal a percussion nipple; the ferrule extends and is attached to a wooden ramrod fitted in the muzzle to conceal the barrel. The handle is in the form of a makara, a mythical dragon-like creature usually associated with Hindu iconography. The head is inlaid with rubies, emeralds and a turquoise.
Provenance
Presented to King Edward VII, when Prince of Wales, during his tour of India in 1875-76. The donor of this extraordinary stick is not recorded; however it may have been presented by Ram Singh, Maharao of Bundi who presented the Prince with a punch dagger customised with pistols (see RCIN 11344).
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Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Steel, gold, wood, emeralds and rubies
Measurements
103.4 x 6.6 x 2.6 cm (whole object)
Place of Production
Bundi [Rajasthan]