PAIR OF FLINTLOCK PISTOLS FROM BRESCIA, Early 18th century. 34621

PAIR OF BRESCIA ARQUEBUSE PISTOLS. Early 18th century. 34621

The light-colored fruitwood stocks of these pistols are finely carved with rocaille-style ornaments; the barrels feature a light horn mouthguard. All the fittings are finely crafted and decorated in iron: butt pommels and buttons, trigger guards, round lockplates, counter plates, and ramrod pipes. The grooved barrels are 8 cm long, with a fluted section, followed by a 14.5 cm round section. The name "LAZ.(lazarre) COMINAZO" (Cominazzo) is engraved on the first third of the barrels, indicating the famous dynasty of Brescian gunsmiths from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Total length of the firearm: 38.5 cm; barrel length: 22.8 cm; caliber: 13 mm; weight: 0.68 kg (ancient ramrod?).

Italy.
Early 18th century.
Good condition, with normal oxidation.

PROVENANCE :
Ancienne collection PM.

BIOGRAPHY:
The Cominazzo dynasty
The Cominazzo family originated from Gardone Val Trompia, near Brescia, in the renowned Lombard gunmaking region. Their primary specialty was the production of barrels rather than complete firearms. The dynasty's presence spanned several centuries, from the 16th to the 19th century.
Gardone held a significant position: under the Republic of Venice, barrel manufacturing was organized with great specialization. Various craftsmen such as master barrel forgers, drillers, levelers, polishers, decorators, and more were found in the region. The Cominazzo family members were engaged in several of these disciplines.

The progenitor Lazaro Cominazzo, born around 1547, passed on his name to multiple descendants.
Among them:
Lazaro II, 1600–1661;
Lazaro di Lorenzo, circa 1646–1680;
Lazaro di Jacomo, born in 1632.
Research by Nolfo di Carpegna indicated that some weapons previously attributed to a single "Lazarino Cominazzo" should likely be attributed to several of these artisans.

Their barrels were esteemed enough to be preserved and mounted on firearms made several decades later.
In other words, a French or European firearm from the 18th century could very well contain an ancient Cominazzo barrel from the 17th century.
The so-called "lazzarine" barrels were highly sought after for their:
- exceptional forging quality;
- uniformity;
- lightness;
- durability;
- accuracy;
- as well as their exceptional decor.
Their reputation was such that "Cominazzo" almost became an international seal of quality.