English sunburst design

[Flatsguide]

Hi folks, I was wondering if anyone knew the decade in the 1700’s when this sunburst design was first used on rifles or guns that were made in Great Britain.
Thank you, Richard

 

[mtlctr]

Guessing 3rd quarter 18th century.

 

[Flatsguide]

Thank you! I’ve been doing a bit of research on the design and the earliest gun I can find it on is a SxS Manton flintlock made in 1797. It became very common on English gun engraving from then to 1820.
Thanks Richard

 

[monk]

are you sure it represents a "sunburst? reminds me of some sort of tropical plant. just a thought

 

[mtlctr]

are you sure it represents a "sunburst? reminds me of some sort of tropical plant. just a thought

Seen on flintlocks on the lock. Represents the pan flash when powder ignites? Imho. Not a plant motif.

 

[JJ Roberts]

Seen the sunburst on English double guns Lynton Mc Kenzie used the motif on guns. J.J.

 

[JMiller]

Here is a video of Ken Hunt drawing an old Sunburst design….

 

[Roger Bleile]

are you sure it represents a "sunburst? reminds me of some sort of tropical plant. just a thought

Regardless, it is commonly known as a "Sunburst" motif.

 

[Flatsguide]

Jeff,thanks a lot for posting that video. Nice to know how a Master would cut the sunburst.
Cheers Richard

 

[monk]

Here is a video of Ken Hunt drawing an old Sunburst design….

beautiful.

 

[JMiller]

Jeff,thanks a lot for posting that video. Nice to know how a Master would cut the sunburst.
Cheers Richard

I really enjoy watching Ken’s videos and hearing him talk about his past and the history.