Blackmore lists James Willmore as "allowed to prove guns as a 'foreigner', 1721-1731." He was challenged to produce proof of his apprenticeship and had his shop searched by the Gunmakers Co. multiple times. His son was apprenticed to him in the Gunmakers Co. in 1740, and he was also made gunmaker-in-ordinary to George II at Whitehall that year and later to George III. He was active until at least 1764. Examples of his work can be seen in the Royal Collection Trust and elsewhere. This pair of classic "Queen Anne" style pistols has turn-off, multi-stage, cannon style barrels. The actions have London proofs flanking the "crown/F" foreigner mark on the lower left sides, floral engraving, "LONDON" on top, and "I/WILLMORE" ahead of the cocks. The figured walnut stocks have silver furniture (non-hallmarked), including classic grotesque mask pommel caps, and raised carving and flats.

Very good with mix of gray and brown patina, some softening of the signature, and aged patina on the furniture. The refinished stock is good and has some thin cracks and repairs, a slight gap at the breech, and light marks. Mechanically fine.

See "A."

Very good with gray and brown patina, some light fading of the details, and aged patina on the furniture. The refinished stock is very good and is plainer than "A" and fits better and has minor dings and scratches. Mechanically fine.