The maker's records confirm that this best quality rifle was completed for a J.C. Cunninghame Esq. on 17 May 1883. With blued slightly tapering barrel signed "ALEXR. HENRY, EDINBURGH & LONDON", fitted with a block mounted bead front sight and a block mounted rear sight of one fixed and one folding leaf each with platinum inlaid center line, the folding leaf engraved "200 YDS". Casehardened action and under lever with fine border and scroll engraving, the top of the action engraved "PATENT NO. 1857". Border and scroll engraved stepped back-action side lock with blued safety catch. Figured 14 inch pistol grip stock with raised cheekpiece, checkered grip and forearm. Blued steel checkered butt plate with hinged trap cover and blued trigger guard. Birmingham black powder proof marks. Please see Donald Dallas, "Alexander Henry, Rifle Maker," Appendix Seven, p. 294.

Fine as partially refinished (barrel) during period of use. Barrel retains 95% blue finish with areas of thinning and an overall plum appearance and clear markings. Action and lock retain traces of the original casehardened finish in protected areas, with clear engraving. Wood is good with various scratches and dents as well as a visible repairs through the wrist with some loss of wood at the back of the lock and both tangs. Mechanically fine. Provenance: Anon. sale, Christie's, London, 23 March 1981, lot 16; Robert M. Lee Collection.