Unsigned Isaac Berlin, Berwick Township, (now) Adams County, Pennsylvania, Ca 1785

An extremely fine and early rifle by Isaac Berlin a pre-eminent maker of Kentucky rifles in Pennsylvania. His early years in rifle making were spent in Easton, PA moving to York (now Adams) County about the time this rifle was made. His style changed quickly adhering to the prevailing style of his new location. His carving technique, though York/Lancaster in composition, is inspired by earlier characteristics of Easton. The rifle is in nice condition with old surfaces, superb carving and engraving, and pleasing architecture. The flintlock is original to the rifle and appears to be locally made possibly by Berlin himself. The 43.5 inch .50 cal barrel is it's original length.

One must conclude the patchbox on this rifle excells in artistic interpretation of the American Rococo design and execution of engraving. Few patchboxes on rifles of this period can compare. And, placement on the butt stock creates wonderful symmetry.

This was one of Joe Kindig Jr and Joe III's favorite rifles from an artistic standpoint; it typifies the Golden Age of riflemaking in Pennsylvania.

Ex Coll: Joe Kindig (photo credit Mark Elliott)

SOLD, DECEMBER 2020