Isaac Barber and Joseph Boaler were in partnership in Newark c. 1804-1819. Blunderbusses were excellent defensive weapons, especially examples like this with folding bayonets, and have also long been associated with the Age of Sail. The multi-stage barrel is mounted with a folding "snap bayonet" with an 11 inch blade. The main bore is between 17 and 18 gauge, and the muzzle flares out to around 1 1/4 inches. The upper left flat has Ordnance private proofs, the top flat is marked "NEWARK," and there is a beaded border at the breech. The flat beveled lock has "BARBER/&/BOALER" signed below the priming pan, a large roller on the frizzen spring, a sliding safety at the stepped tail, and floral/chevron pattern before the step. The furniture is brass with floral engraving and includes a stylized pineapple finial on the trigger guard. The stock has a checkered wrist. The ramrod has a horn tip. Provenance: The Greg Lampe Collection

Fine with aged patina on the brass, gray and brown patina on the lock and bayonet, and mild overall wear. The stock is extremely fine and has crisp checkering, light dings and scratches and minor wear. Mechanically fine.