Pistol, horse pistol

Horse pistols were typically used by cavalrymen. This one was manufactured by the famous London gunmaker Harvey Walklate Mortimer. A prolific maker of duelling and officers' pistols, Mortimer specialized in exotic gold-mounted guns for the Levantine and Asian markets. He worked as a contractor to the East India Company between 1796 and 1806. In 1783 he was appointed gunmaker to George III which he proudly advertised on his trade cards. Mortimer also served as a member of the Law Association Volunteers during the Napoleonic Wars.

This flintlock pistol was proofed (test-fired with an overweight charge) at the Tower of London to guarantee its safety. The Tower offered a private proofing service from the mid 18th century until around 1804. This met with considerable opposition from the London Gunmakers' Company which wished to retain a monopoly on proofing in order to regulate the trade. The pistol is fitted with a safety catch. The brass barrel, lock plate and butt pommel were to prevent the onset of rust in bad weather conditions.