Bidspirit auction | Ottoman Kubur Flintlock Pair &
Ottoman Kubur Flintlock Pair & Holster (A) - An exceptionally rare, matching pair of 19th-century Ottoman Provinces muzzleloading flintlock holster pistols, historically referred to as ”Kubur,” complete with their authentic ”Kuburluk” double saddle holster. This ensemble reflects the quintessential style of regional cavalry or camel-mounted officers across North Africa and the Middle East. The long, tapered smoothbore barrels measure approximately 12.5 inches and feature hand-carved, dark-stained hardwood stocks that culminate in heavy, bulbous pommels designed to balance the firearms during mounted field use. A striking design detail is the addition of small, square red glass or enamel inserts inlaid directly into the spine of each grip back, adding a sharp flash of color to the deep patina. The iron lockplates are embellished with classic scrollwork engravings, and the steel barrels display visible spiral textures reminiscent of traditional faux-Damascus twist patterns. The accompanying heavy-gauge leather saddle holster features a central accessory pouch, a rear leather loop for saddle tree attachment, and faded remnants of decorative yellow thread embroidery detailing along the borders. Objectively assessing their physical condition from the photographs, the firearms show an honest, untouched aged patina with moderate pitting and oxidation across the iron barrels, frizzens, and cocks. The wooden stocks show expected surface scuffs, shallow bruising, and handling wear, though both black mechanism sets are structurally sound and visually cycle when the triggers are pulled. The leather holster exhibits substantial degradation commensurate with age and field use, including heavy surface cracking, active flaking, stiffening, and localized losses to the decorative embroidery and stitching, yet it remains completely intact as an exceptionally rare surviving specimen. H 10.25”, W 9.25”, D 3.5”. Please see photos for condition.