The Ken Hunt-Engraved Purdey Extra Finish Over-and-Under 28 Gauge:
A Masterwork in Gold and Steel
Among the finest expressions of British gunmaking artistry, this Purdey Extra Finish Over-and-Under 28 gauge stands as a rare union of technical mastery and breathtaking beauty. Built by J. Purdey & Sons — a name long synonymous with excellence — and engraved by the legendary Ken Hunt, this exquisite two-barrel set elevates the tradition of the London Best gun to extraordinary heights.
At a glance, the classic form is unmistakable: a svelte 5 lbs. 12 oz. frame, capped pistol grip, field forearm, and hand-checkered butt — the very configuration of a proper sporting gun. Yet it is only upon closer inspection that the true splendor of this Purdey reveals itself.
The action is adorned with deeply chiseled traditional rose and scroll engraving, flowing seamlessly across the lockplates, top lever, and trigger guard. The scrolls, rendered in a bold yet intricate hand, rise and fall across the steel with remarkable depth, their edges shaded and stippled to create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Each leaf and tendril appears to lift from the surface, creating a three-dimensional effect that only the finest hand-engraving can achieve. The background fields have been delicately matted to a soft, almost velvet texture, setting off the polished relief of the scrollwork to brilliant effect.
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