Matchlock Musket 19th century Tibetan This is a good example of a fairly plain but well-made and utilitarian Tibetan matchlock in relatively complete condition and with an old provenance. Its fittings consist of a small engraved copper cap at the tip of the fore stock; a plain brass plate on either side of the fore stock just behind the horn block, where it is pierced by a transverse hole for a loop to hold the front of the sling; and an iron lock plate on both sides of the stock. Behind the breech is the most decorative feature of the gun: a very simple pierced copper plate (the escutcheon plate) with scrollwork, lions, and a garuda motif, which is pierced by a slot for the upper arm of the serpentine (see detail). The match-cord pouch, made of leather, is unusual in having a lengthwise flap that closes over eleven copper rings, which pass through slots in the flap. The plain iron barrel flares at the muzzle and has a bead sight and a peep sight. The twist pattern of the barrel forgin