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Learn MoreEmperor Napoleon III's Hunting Shotgun
- This pinfire hunting shotgun was once owned by Emperor Napoleon III
- It comes in its original Boulle-style case, a masterpiece itself
- The maker, Caron, exquisitely engraved the firearm with scenes of animals and flora
- Dated 1859
- Get complete item description here
$158,500
Item No.
31-9746
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Description
This extraordinary firearm was once the prized possession of Emperor Napoleon III and is an astonishing symbol of France’s glorious Second Empire. Hunting, both a display of grandeur and a cherished escape from the demands of governance, held a special place in the life of the great ruler. This magnificent pinfire hunting shotgun, housed in a splendid Boulle-style case, epitomizes the opulence and authority of the era.
The case itself is a masterpiece, adorned. . .
The case itself is a masterpiece, adorned. . .
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This extraordinary firearm was once the prized possession of Emperor Napoleon III and is an astonishing symbol of France’s glorious Second Empire. Hunting, both a display of grandeur and a cherished escape from the demands of governance, held a special place in the life of the great ruler. This magnificent pinfire hunting shotgun, housed in a splendid Boulle-style case, epitomizes the opulence and authority of the era.
The case itself is a masterpiece, adorned with intricate brass marquetry that weaves together personal emblems and natural motifs. At its center, a striking shield bears the emperor’s monogram, flanked by regal hounds and crowned by the imperial eagle—symbols of Napoleon III’s enduring legacy.
The pinfire shotgun, impeccably preserved within its original blue velvet cushion, is a marvel of craftsmanship. Exquisitely engraved with scenes of animals and flora, the shotgun is a testament to the artistry of its maker. It is signed "CARON ARQer DE SM L'EMPEREUR A PARIS" and marked with the details of the esteemed gunmaker: "Léopold BERNARD - N° 7768, date 1859." The design showcases a finely chiseled trigger guard, a detailed butt plate and a walnut stock adorned with diamond checkering, reflecting the highest standards of 19th-century craftsmanship.
Accompanying the shotgun is a collection of custom accessories, including a brass cartridge cutter with an ebony handle, an ebony tamper, a brass powder flask, a shell extraction hook, a fawn leather sling covered in green shagreen, a two-part ebony cleaning rod and various brushes. On the bottom of the trigger, Napoleon’s monogram with the crown further underscores its royal provenance. Many personal artifacts of the Emperor are preserved in esteemed institutions, and firearms of this caliber, with such pristine condition and historical significance, are exceptionally rare.
Dated 1859
Box: 33 5/8“ wide x 9 1/8” deep x 3 3/8“ high
Provenance:
Emperor Louis Napoleon Bonaparte III
Collection of Jean Louis Noisiez, Paris
Private Collection, California
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
The case itself is a masterpiece, adorned with intricate brass marquetry that weaves together personal emblems and natural motifs. At its center, a striking shield bears the emperor’s monogram, flanked by regal hounds and crowned by the imperial eagle—symbols of Napoleon III’s enduring legacy.
The pinfire shotgun, impeccably preserved within its original blue velvet cushion, is a marvel of craftsmanship. Exquisitely engraved with scenes of animals and flora, the shotgun is a testament to the artistry of its maker. It is signed "CARON ARQer DE SM L'EMPEREUR A PARIS" and marked with the details of the esteemed gunmaker: "Léopold BERNARD - N° 7768, date 1859." The design showcases a finely chiseled trigger guard, a detailed butt plate and a walnut stock adorned with diamond checkering, reflecting the highest standards of 19th-century craftsmanship.
Accompanying the shotgun is a collection of custom accessories, including a brass cartridge cutter with an ebony handle, an ebony tamper, a brass powder flask, a shell extraction hook, a fawn leather sling covered in green shagreen, a two-part ebony cleaning rod and various brushes. On the bottom of the trigger, Napoleon’s monogram with the crown further underscores its royal provenance. Many personal artifacts of the Emperor are preserved in esteemed institutions, and firearms of this caliber, with such pristine condition and historical significance, are exceptionally rare.
Dated 1859
Box: 33 5/8“ wide x 9 1/8” deep x 3 3/8“ high
Provenance:
Emperor Louis Napoleon Bonaparte III
Collection of Jean Louis Noisiez, Paris
Private Collection, California
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
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Specifications
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | France |
| Type: | Arms and Armor |
| Depth: | 9.13 in. (23.18 cm) |
| Width: | 33.63 in. (85.41 cm) |
| Height: | 3.38 in. (8.57 cm) |
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The Other Napoleonic Era: The Forgotten Second French Empire
During the Second French Empire (1852-1870), Emperor Napoleon III brought modernity and luxury to France, accomplishing many of the unfulfilled goals of his uncle, Napoleon I. Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, Napoleon on his Imperial Throne,...
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Buy with Confidence
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
Learn More
