A Rare Catalan, Brass Engraved Casing Flintlock Pistol from Ripoll, Circa 1690.

A Rare Catalan, Brass Engraved Casing Flintlock Pistol from Ripoll, Circa 1690. This exceptionally rare Catalan flintlock pistol, produced in the celebrated arms center of Ripoll circa 1690, is a masterful example of late 17th-century Mediterranean firearms artistry. Unlike the more common wooden-stocked variants of the period, this specimen is entirely encased in a chased brass sleeve, a feature denoting a commission of significant status and luxury. The brass surface is expertly worked in low relief with a dense program of scrolling foliate motifs and floral blossoms, characteristic of the ornamental style popularized by Ripoll gunsmiths. The weapon is fitted with a traditional Miquelet lock, featuring a signature ring-neck cock and a ribbed steel frizzen, providing a sharp visual contrast to the lustrous yellow metal of the stock. The barrel is partially fluted at the breech and encased in matching chased brass towards the muzzle, while the hilt terminates in a bold, spherical ball butt that is likewise meticulously engraved. A long steel belt hook is mounted to the left side, lighter military or civilian carriage. A steel ramrod is attached under the barrel. This rare survival represents the height of Catalan craftsmanship during the Baroque period and remains a premier example of specialized regional gunmaking. Length cm, The item is in Excellent condition.