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Learn MoreKing Charles III's Flintlock Rifle by Francisco Antonio Garzya
- This royal Spanish flintlock rifle was crafted for the King of Spain in 1775
- It was made in Madrid by master gunsmith Francisco Antonio Garzya
- The rifle bears royal insignia, including crown motifs and cipher
- Exceptional gold inlay decoration in the Spanish ataujía tradition features Rococo scrollwork and floral motifs
- Get complete item description here
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Francisco Antonio Garzya
Dated 1775
This extraordinary royal flintlock rifle represents the pinnacle of Spanish gunmaking artistry, made for the King of Spain, King Charles III. Created in Madrid in 1775 by master gunsmith Francisco Antonio Garzya, this firearm bears the royal cipher and crown insignia indicating its commission for the Spanish monarchy. With its exceptional gold inlay work and royal provenance, this rifle exemplifies the sophisticated craftsmanship. . .
Francisco Antonio Garzya
Dated 1775
This extraordinary royal flintlock rifle represents the pinnacle of Spanish gunmaking artistry, made for the King of Spain, King Charles III. Created in Madrid in 1775 by master gunsmith Francisco Antonio Garzya, this firearm bears the royal cipher and crown insignia indicating its commission for the Spanish monarchy. With its exceptional gold inlay work and royal provenance, this rifle exemplifies the sophisticated craftsmanship that distinguished Madrid's royal workshops as among Europe's finest during the 18th century.
The rifle's decoration showcases the Spanish tradition of ataujía, the art of gold inlay on darkened steel. Scrolling acanthus leaves, palmettes and floral motifs executed in gold flow across the barrel and lock plate in the Rococo manner, while the lock mechanism itself displays sophisticated metalwork. The walnut stock features relief carving that complements the metalwork's ornamental program. The barrel bears the inscription "En Madryd" followed by "FRANº ANTº GARZYA" and the date "A D MDCCLXXV" (1775), all rendered in gold inlay. Royal insignia, including crown motifs, confirm this rifle's connection to the Spanish court. The flintlock mechanism remains intact, demonstrating the technical excellence that matched its aesthetic achievement.
Francisco Antonio Garzya worked in Madrid's royal workshops when Spanish gunsmiths enjoyed international recognition for their technical skill and decorative mastery. Operating under royal patronage during the reign of Charles III (1759-1788), craftsmen like Garzya produced presentation pieces that served diplomatic and ceremonial functions while demonstrating Spain's firearm expertise. These firearms were created for royal hunting expeditions and as diplomatic gifts to nobility and allied courts, representing Spanish power and artistic achievement. Examples of comparable quality from Madrid's royal workshops reside in the Royal Armory in Madrid and major museum collections worldwide.
5 3/4“ high x 3 1/4” wide x 42 1/4“ deep

| Period: | 18th Century |
| Type: | Arms and Armor |
| Depth: | 47.0 in. (119.38 cm) |
| Width: | 3.0 in. (7.62 cm) |
| Height: | 6.25 in. (15.88 cm) |
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