Mark Silver Jaeger

In the style of the Germantic rifle c. 1700

.58 cal., 33 1/2" barrel, 9 1/2 lbs., iron mounted and stocked in European walnut

This peace is stylistically derived from two rifles by Michael Wagner of Cronach and two rifles by Elias Schintzel of Berlin. The strong regional Germanic features are enlightened by decoration taken from the Paris pattern books of the classical Louis the XIV style c. 1660-1695 which dominated much of European decorative art well into the 18th century, such as the exotic bird above the patchbox lid, the dragon finial buttplate, and the pierced and relief chiseled sideplate. This rifle includes very extensive relief carving, elaborate silver and gold wire stock inlay, and entensive relief chiseling and engraving on the lock and mounts. The barrel features intricate 24k gold engraved inlay and an elaborate rear sight sculpture with pierced and filed relief decoration.

The mounts, set triggers, and lock are filed from hand forgings. The boldly archaic "spoon" form of Germanic guard bow is blended with the sophisticated Parisian pierced and relief chiseled front finial. This stylistic integration typifies what I feel makes many German rifles such a vibrant and effective form of art.

Copy by Mark Silver and photographed at the 2010 CLA Show by Jan Riser.