Original Japanese Edo Period Matchlock Tanegashima Musket with Loop Trigger & Flame Figured Stock U.S. Ordnance This also explains why the

This also explains why the fittings are loose

It was administered by the naval department of the ministry of war

MEDER of LEPZIG

There is a silver oval plaque attached just below her neck stating:-

Original Japanese Edo Period Matchlock Tanegashima Musket with Loop Trigger & Flame Figured Stock U.S. Ordnance This also explains why theOriginal Item: One of a Kind. This is an extremely interesting weapon, especially considering the historical impact of firearm development in Japanese history. It was crafted probably in the late 1700s or early 1800s as a matchlock firearm using black powder and a very primitive ignition system, far behind the rest of the world. This type of gun is often referred to as a Tanegashima (), after the island where a Chinese junk with Portuguese adventurers