A 19th Century North African, Algeria, Miquelet-Lock Musket (Moukhala) with Inlaid Stock.

A 19th Century North African, Algeria, Miquelet-Lock Musket (Moukhala) with Inlaid Stock. This exceptional long-barreled miquelet-lock musket, known as a Moukhala, originates from North Africa and serves as a quintessential example of regional craftsmanship from the 19th century. The firearm features a dark hardwood stock profusely adorned with intricate bone inlays, including traditional geometric motifs, stars, and crescent moons, which are characteristic of the Maghreb artistic tradition. The miquelet lock mechanism is finely wrought with components, demonstrating the sophisticated mechanical techniques of the period, the iron parts are decorated with silver or brass engraved plates typical of Algeria. The long, tapered iron barrel is secured to the stock by multiple decorative brass bands, each featuring chased foliate patterns. The total length of the piece measures approximately 164 cm, with the barrel possessing an internal bore diameter of approximately 14.6 mm. The item is in good condition.