belt pistol / Highland, c. 1750-1770

Highland Scottish belt pistol. Made by Alexander Cameron c. 1730. All metal construction. The gunsmith, Alexander Campbell (died 1790), was initially apprenticed to Flemish / Scottish gunsmith Thomas Caddell at Doune, Perthshire, Scotland. Similar examples of Campbell's work in the Metropolitan Museum of Art suggest a date of between 1750-1770 and are referred to as a distinctive pistol of the type carried by the Highland warriors - all metal construction usually of steel, with engraving all over and with a scrolled "ram's-horn" butt. It may have originally been one of a pair. Highly decorated, incised, floral design all over. Name 'Alexander' clearly inscribed on lockplate. Illegible inscription underneath name.;