Boutet pocket pistols are reasonably easy to date due to changing style/design over the years and also the signature can be a big help. This pistol is signed “”MAre Royale” on one lock plate and “Versailles” on the other. “Manufacture Royale” tells us that the pistol was made after Napoleon’s first defeat and the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in 1814. This pistol was made after 1814 and before the end of Boutet’s licence in 1818.

With 48mm turn-off barrel and 12mm bore, engraved bands at breach, and both ends of the barrel. The pan is engraved with 12 stars, the pivot with a flower, and both ends of the pivot screw are also engraved, as is the safety button. The frizzen and spring screw are fully engraved and run on roller bearings.

The swan-neck cock is lightly engraved, and the top-jaw engraved with explosive clouds and lightening bolts.

The concealed drop-down trigger and underframe surround are engraved with an ornamental vase and flowers.

The walnut stock is finely chequered.

The barrel and breach are numbered “2”, indicating that this was one of a pair. The barrel also has a “5” stamped within a oval and the tang with the numerals 6 & 7.

This pistol appears unfired.