Antique Moroccan/North African style Flintlock Musket in .70 cal.

Antique MOROCCAN/NORTH AFRICAN Style .70 Caliber Flintlock Decorated Musket.

This style and design were made circa early 1700’s in North Africa.  These are traditional Arab and Berber tribe flintlock muskets.  Many were reportedly made by Jewish gunsmiths who resided in the Kasars of the Tafilalt and Figuig regions of Southeastern Morocco.*  The very good quality iron used was transported in from the North along the caravan trade routes.   Read more

The inlay/parquet is of mother of pearl…. And lots and lots of it.  ¼” squares and smaller dots.  I cannot fathom the time involved in just the decoration.  I wish that patch of inlay was not missing .... but time takes it's toll ... and probably would be in some firearms museum if ....

Overall the condition is Good.  Bore is good for its age but action does not function.  Barrel is 28 1/8”  Overall length is 30 ¾”.  Butt to trigger is 7 ¾”

Another great piece of firearms history.  If it could only speak a bit louder!

*  My seller is the one that used the "Jewish Gunsmith" insert.  While there is a long history of gold and silversmithing (including this kind of parquet inlay work) among Jews in that region, I cannot find any referenced to gunsmithing.  Not saying it's not so ... but I will keep looking.