Images(8)

Colonel's Purchase Musket for the 3rd. Guards

Dateca.1715

Artist/Maker William Predden

OriginEngland

MediumIron, steel, and wood

DimensionsOverall: 61 1/16"; Barrel: 44 3/4" x .82 caliber; Lock; 6 7/8" x 1 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1982-8

DescriptionPrivately purchased infantry musket of the pattern made by William Predden for the Earl of Dunmore's 3rd. Guards. Walnut stock, rounded-faced "banana" shaped lock, iron mounts, and a wooden rammer.Label TextThis early 18th c. British infantry musket is part of the stand of arms purchased by John Murray, 2nd Earl of Dunmore (1685-1752) around 1715 for the unit he commanded, the 3rd Regiment of Foot Guards, later known as the famed Scots Guards.

The majority of the muskets forming this stand were made by London gunsmith William Predden, and many carry the regimental inscription EARLE OF DVNMORE engraved into the barrel. Some are also engraved with either a "Crowned AR" cypher for Queen Anne (1702-1714) or "Crowned GR" for George I (1714-1727), helping to date the entire stand of arms. Each is crudely engraved with a distinctively styled numeral on the wristplate, ranging from "2" to "29" (as observed). Colonial Williamsburg's musket is number "5," and bayonet number "10" is also in the collection (2024-177).Inscription(s)Lock engraved "W" over "PREDDEN" below pan, barrel carries traces of either a "Crown AR" or "Crown GR" cypher, and the wristplate is engraved "5."Mark(s)Breech struck with London Gunmaker's Company Proof and View marks, plus Predden's mark.