Michael, I'm really interested in the paint scheme and symbols painted on this piece. As we know, many of these early weapons received refurbishing and alterations over the years, and you note the serpentine appears 17th century.
What in interesting is the cabalistic symbols seen painted on, the sun, moon and stars. These are very similar to the talismanic blades which often are seen on German sword blades of the 18th century after becoming popular on hunting sword blades earlier. Are such symbols known to appear on the stocks of these early guns in other cases?
Also, I am still curious about the choice for red and green coloring.
All the best,
Jim
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