Pistols Signed Gillet In Tulle And Desaga – Circa 1770

A pair of naval officer's pistols known as "sea dogs," Royal Manufactory of Tulle, circa 1770. Signed "Gillet à Tulle" on the left and right lock plates, and marked "Duché" under the mainsprings. Barrel signed "Desaga," gunsmith in Tulle. The walnut stocks are magnificently carved with the heads of long-maned sea dogs, emblem of French naval arms, and bear the fleur-de-lis stamp. The iron furniture features a finely engraved, wrap-around muzzle cap with arabesques and a delicately executed front sight. Hook-type side plates and nail-headed ramrods. Technical details: Overall length 30 cm Barrel length 18 cm Caliber 15 mm System Flintlock mechanism, round body Material Iron and carved walnut Decoration Sea dog heads, arabesques, fleur-de-lis These naval officer's pistols embody the refinement of the Royal Manufactory of Tulle at the end of Louis XV's reign. Their symbolic ornamentation and quality of manufacture make them one of the most elegant and sought-after models of 18th-century French production. Their exceptional condition—uncleaned, with original patina—reinforces their rarity. A similar example is held at the Musée National de la Marine, Paris (inv. M.6761), attributed to Duché, Tulle, circa 1765. Estimate: €14,000–18,000 per pair