19th century scale models in miniature of a European military musket which is approximately .38 caliber and measuring 24” overall with a 15” barrel fired by percussion caps and a sword which measures 13.5” overall (about half-scale) and a 9.75” forged steel blade. Both are originally inscribed “L’Admiral Tom Ponce” which in French translation means "Tom Thumb." Tom Thumb was the world's most recognized performer during the mid-19th century and his performances for Barnum & Bailey Circus made him famous worldwide. Tom Thumb billed himself as General Tom Thumb and Admiral Tom Thumb was a European counterpart who emulated the showmanship of the most famous “little person.” The musket is well made and in proportion as a fully functioning and operating gun. The blade is inscribed “Admiral Tom Ponce” with the maker's name in Solingen and date of 1860 on the reverse. Condition: The condition of the musket is good to very good with some minor pitting and erosion. The wood is very good and the gun is well detailed after an 1850s to 1860s period French style military musket and is accurate is style down to spring on brass bands. The lock is inscribed in block letters. The condition of the sword is very good. 19th century miniatures are very scarce but almost never identified and we are sure both were worn and used in this little Admiral’s performances throughout Europe.
19th century scale models in miniature of a European military musket which is approximately .38 caliber and measuring 24” overall with a 15” barrel fired by percussion caps and a sword which measures 13.5” overall (about half-scale) and a 9.75” forged steel blade. Both are originally inscribed “L’Admiral Tom Ponce” which in French translation means "Tom Thumb." Tom Thumb was the world's most recognized performer during the mid-19th century and his performances for Barnum & Bailey Circus made him famous worldwide. Tom Thumb billed himself as General Tom Thumb and Admiral Tom Thumb was a European counterpart who emulated the showmanship of the most famous “little person.” The musket is well made and in proportion as a fully functioning and operating gun. The blade is inscribed “Admiral Tom Ponce” with the maker's name in Solingen and date of 1860 on the reverse. Condition: The condition of the musket is good to very good with some minor pitting and erosion. The wood is very good and the gun is well detailed after an 1850s to 1860s period French style military musket and is accurate is style down to spring on brass bands. The lock is inscribed in block letters. The condition of the sword is very good. 19th century miniatures are very scarce but almost never identified and we are sure both were worn and used in this little Admiral’s performances throughout Europe.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
