Flintlock Tinder Lighter, late 17th Century

A most unusual tinder lighter. Italian, or perhaps Ferlach, due to the steel wire inlay, which is reminiscent of decoration on 17th century firearms from this region in Austria. The iron rectangular shaped body, engraved with floral scrolls,  has a sliding cover to access the tinder storage. A second storage area is provided on the bottom of the stock and is accessed by removing a sliding bone panel.

Condition: The stock has an old stress crack at the bottom, directly below the “V” of the main spring and there is an old chip on top of the stock at the rear corner of  the tinder box..

Price – SOLD