Accompanying this Paradox is a Norman R. Blank Collection typed note confirming the current configuration and that it was built in 1897. This gun is pictured and discussed on pages 195 and 196 of David Baker and Roger Lake's "Paradox: The story of Col. G. V. Fosbery, Holland & Holland, and the Paradox" where it also states that only 69 or 70 8 bore Paradox guns where built over a 24 year period. Madewith blued steel barrels featuring a beaded blade front sight with a flip-up porcelain moon sight, a fixed 50 yard rear sight on the raised checkered quarter rib, "HOLLAND & HOLLAND. 98 NEW BOND STREET, LONDON." and "'PARADOX' FOSBERY PATENT" signed on the right and left tubes respectively, and London nitro re-proof marks on the flats which indicate the standard 3 1/2 inch chambers with an extractor. The barrels are mated to a back action which displays tasteful flourishes of floral scrollwork as well as "HOLLAND & HOLLAND" signatures on each lockplate and "CHARGE 8 TO 10 DRAMS/CASE 3 1/2 INCHES" marked on the underside. The gun features gold line cocking indicators on the lockplates, double triggers, and a tang mounted automatic safety with a gold inlaid "SAFE" indicator. The gun is fitted with a light figured and multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved fittings and a pistol grip stock with engraved steel grip cap, shadowline cheekpiece, blank horn oval, rear sling swivel, and an orange rubber recoil pad. Included with the gun is an oak and leather takedown case with a set of loading and cleaning tools, including a Holland & Holland 8 bore Paradox mold, 8 bore Paradox fixer, and spare firing pins. Length of pull 14 1/16 inches. Weight 14 lbs. 4 oz. Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

Fine, retaining 80% factory blued finish on the barrels, attractive silver patina on the action with flashes of case colors, some scattered spotting, 50% original blue on the triggerguard. The fine reoiled wood is fitted with a recoil pad and exhibits a few minor marks and sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is age worn.