Rare, Beautiful Rifle from the Edo Period, Late 1700s, Japan. Tanegashima is the name for Japanese matchlock rifles which were in extensive use and proved a decisive role in warfare beginning in the 16th Century. Offered is a rifle from the late 1700s which falls well within the 250 years rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. This period saw very little conflict for Japan and noted for its prolonged peace and isolationist foreign policies. Offered is a beautiful and ornate rifle from this period. The octagonal barrel measures 40" in length and has two twin bands and inlays of birds and bamboo in brass. The entire stock has inlays of chrysanthemum-like blooms and at the butt, a lion. The match lock works fine. Total length of the rifle is 52 inches with a total weight of 8.7 pounds. Shipping limited to the United States. Estimated Value $2,000 - 3,000
Arms and Armor
