1071 - (A) UNTOUCHED RELIEF CARVED SIGNED J.P. BECK KENTUCKY RIFLE. Caliber/Bore: .54 Smoothbore Barrel Length: 43” For a similar example, see page 71 of “Arms Makers of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania” by Wood & Whisker. The example shown in the book and this example both have the same furniture and engraved “Whale Tail” patchbox finials as well as similar carving. John Phillip Beck (1751-1811) was a master gunsmith in Lebanon Township, Lancaster County. Beck took the oath of allegiance to Pennsylvania in 1778 and was paid to repair arms in Lancaster County for the militia from 1777-1781. According to the book referenced above, J.P. Beck’s guns are the epitome of late 18th century gun making. The octagon to round barrel features a tear drop applied brass front sight and a notched iron rear sight. Top flat is inscribed “J*P*Beck” towards the breech. The flat lockplate has been converted to percussion during the period of use and appears to be American made with only a simple flute at the tail. The brass furniture includes a four-piece engraved “whale tail” patchbox with simple borders and engraved foliate scrolls mirroring those found on the relief carving. The rifle has no toe plate and the trigger guard and sideplate are classic J.P. Beck in style. The full length partially figured maple stock has relief carved panels terminating in tear drops around the lock and sideplate. There are relief scrolls with incised designs around the barrel tang and larger relief scrolls with incised highlights on both sides of the cheekpiece. There is also an incised scroll design in front of the trigger guard. There is a relief molding on both sides of the ramrod channel. CONDITION: Completely as found and untouched. Barrel retains a dark heavy brown patina. Signature shows some wear and there is some pitting around the percussion bolster. Lock has been converted to percussion and retains a matching patina to the barrel. Nipple is broken off. Brass retains a dark brown patina, with some even darker spots. Stock retains a dry surface with most of the finish no longer remaining. Buttstock shows a few deep age cracks against the buttplate and at the toe. There has been no wood restoration. Ramrod appears to be a period replacement. A very nice, untouched, Golden Age, relief carved and signed Beck rifle. DMG 5,000 - 10,000
48
www.MorphyAuctions.com | May 18, 2021