Balkan ? Pistol.

[Oliver Pinchot]

As early as the 17th century, these pistols were sold at arms fairs which certain Italian makers (notably Brescians) held on the Balkan coast of the Adriatic, principally at Split (It: Spolato) as well as other locations. One could buy a complete weapon or the mounts alone.

The mounts are decorated with what were called "al orientale" (oriental) motifs (typically though not invariably crescent moons and stars.) The marks on the lockplate and triggerguard of this particular example were probably done locally (i.e. in the Balkans) after it was acquired. They cannot be translated because they are not inscriptions; rather, they are intended to emulate Latin characters (which they did, with varying degrees of success.) Most of the owners of these pieces were illiterate. Those that could read might know Greek, Glagolitic or Ottoman characters. Hence, these marks were taken, not as inscriptions per se, but as quality marks. This is roughly comparable to people who cannot read Latin characters nonetheless recognizing the prestige of the Rolls Royce logo. The dragon is also likely a local addition. Before it became the Christian sign of evil, the dragon represented power and strength throughout the East.

[rickystl]

Oliver: Thanks for posting your comments. I was not aware of the historic arms faires. Most interesting. Thanks for adding to my knowledge base on these pistols. Much appreciated.

It's amazing how popular these pistols remained for near 200 years. That probably accounts for the many specimens available today.

Rick

[Oliver Pinchot]

They were in use in more isolated areas of the Balkans and Anatolia up until WWII... imagine.

[rickystl]

Originally Posted by Oliver Pinchot

They were in use in more isolated areas of the Balkans and Anatolia up until WWII... imagine.

LOL. Unbelievable. It's like looking at photos taken in the 1870's of Caucassian warriors still wearing chain mail armour. Traditions in this Region of the World did not die easily.

Rick