A very scarce Chinese matchlock 28 bore musket or gun dating to the 18th or early 19th century. Brass mounts throughout, some intricate inlaid brass discs. The matchlock mechanism in good working order, large curved brass matchholder, brass trigger, brass barrel bands. The heavy steel barrel is thickly lacquered in black, perhaps as protection for the steel against the elements, or possibly to avoid nightime glare, or for some other significance. Some loss to this lacquer, otherwise this gun is of very high quality construction and survives in wonderful condition, chinese matchlock guns are very hard to find, especially in this condition. 56.5 inches long overall far east