Michael: I'm speechless.
Thank you sooooo much for posting these photos. Hope you won't mind me taking copies of these for my own keeping?
I agree with you that this Lock was probably never made to be mounted on a gun. This may explain the extra large size of the lock, and possibly the holes around the outer edge. Yes, I believe this was made for display in the Lock Maker's shop so potential customers could view the high-end of the gunsmith's capabilities. What also makes me come to that conclusion is that I have two LARGE decorated miquelet locks that I previously posted on this Forum. The locks are done in the sporting style, but are larger than musket size and look as though they were never mounted to a gun. Additionally, one of the locks has two holes drilled (a long time ago) in the middle of the pan.
This Lock you just posted is Fabulous!!!! Even though there is no maker's mark (which surprises me) it is wonderful that we can authenticate a date of manufacture. Again, with much THANKS for posting. Rick.
I just received the first two pictures of the Wheellock Rifle previously discussed. The owner has promised me additional close up photos and description of what he "believes" it to be. Rick.