Discover how the value of similar works has evolved over the past 10 years. Art is not only beauty — it's an investment.
Discover how the value of similar works has evolved over the past 10 years. Art is not only beauty — it's an investment.
A fine pair of 11 mm duelling pistols by the Imperial court gunsmith Jacques Bertrand (Bertrand, St. Petersbourg). The octagonal smoothbore barrels bear a gilt inscription “Bertrand. St. Petersbourg” on the top flat. Serial numbers “205.1” and “205.2” engraved on the underside. Locks finely engraved with floral motifs, blued finish preserved, elegantly shaped cocks. Walnut grips with sharp chequering and refined ergonomic profile.
Presented in their original fitted wooden case with brass mounts and key. The green baize lining of high quality, complete with full complement of original accessories: ramrods, bullet mould, screwdrivers, oil flask, powder and shot containers. Length of pistols: 44 cm.
Hallmarks: Gold-inlaid inscription “Bertrand. St. Petersbourg” on barrels; serial numbers “205.1” and “205.2”.
Dimensions: Length – 44 cm.
Condition: Excellent condition. Bluing and gilt inscriptions well preserved, grips crisp, mechanisms in working order. Case and accessories complete and original.
Provenance: Private collection.
This pair of duelling pistols, crafted in St Petersburg by Jacques Bertrand in the mid-19th century, exemplifies the finest Russian imperial firearms. Bertrand, a French-born gunsmith, settled in Russia in the 1830s and quickly rose to prominence, becoming gunsmith to the Imperial court and the Naval Department. His works were exhibited at major Russian industrial exhibitions in Moscow (1835) and St Petersburg (1849), earning acclaim for technical and artistic excellence.
Duelling pistols occupied a special place in noble culture, as duels were not only affairs of honour but also formalised rituals. Perfect balance, identical construction and flawless mechanisms were paramount to ensure fairness between adversaries. Pairs of pistols were delivered in elegant cases with complete sets of accessories, reflecting both function and luxury.
Bertrand’s reputation extended to commissions from the Imperial family. In 1844, he produced a richly decorated firearm for Grand Duke Mikhail Nikolaevich, valued at 300 roubles, a significant sum of the time. His breechloading rifles were tested by naval troops between 1836–1848, further underlining his innovative approach. Today, his firearms are preserved in the Hermitage Museum and the State Historical Museum in Moscow, testifying to his lasting significance.
This set embodies Bertrand’s artistry and precision, serving both as weapon and as cultural symbol of mid-19th century Russian aristocratic life.
Outstanding preservation: barrels retain deep bluing and gilt inscriptions, engravings sharp, grips intact, locks functional. Original case and accessories fully preserved.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
