12mm equates to the English .410 calibre shotgun. Popularly described as a "Ladies Gun" in this size, but also used as a (very) small game gun. Not really of much use, as the amount of shot thrown from the small cartridge/muzzleload did not spread that well at anything over about 20 yards. More likely to wound game than kill.
My first impression of that carving was that it is a fish!
Another very nice piece Fernando. Really must try to visit your "museum" one day.
Stu
