A fine pair of Ottoman flintlock silver-gilt Epirot pistols, Ioannina, Greece, 19th Century

with long tapered steel barrels encased at the muzzle, the stocks decorated throughout with gilt-silver finely chiselled and chased with dense floral and scroll-designs, the grips with embossed palmette finials

In good condition, some ware and rubbing to gilt-overlay decoration on the barrels, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

For further information on the tradition of gun making in Ioannina and similar examples, please see: Elgood 2009, pp.230-249, nos.286-294.