Napoleon's Historic Pistols Fetch 1.69 Million Euros at Auction
Two richly decorated pistols, once owned by Emperor Napoleon I, have been sold at auction for 1.69 million euros, including fees. The sale took place at the Osenat auction house in Fontainebleau on Sunday, July 7. These pistols, classified as 'national treasures,' were sold in a precious wooden box made of burr walnut and ebony, lined with green velvet embroidered with gold.
The Historical Significance of Napoleon's Pistols
The two pistols were specially ordered by Napoleon from the gunsmith Louis Marin Gosset and are inlaid with gold and silver, bearing the profile of the emperor. They are linked to Napoleon's attempted suicide on the night of April 12 to 13, 1814, during his first abdication. After his defeat in the French campaign, Napoleon, in a state of deep depression, tried to end his life using these weapons. However, his grand squire, Caulaincourt, removed the powder from the pistols. Napoleon then attempted to poison himself but survived.
A National Treasure and Its Journey
The pistols were considered a national treasure by the Advisory Commission on National Treasures, which refused their export certificate. This classification means the French administration has 30 months to make a purchase offer to the owner, who can refuse. Cultural properties deemed national treasures can only leave France temporarily and must return. The Ministry of Culture noted that the pistols are intended to join the national collections, alongside the so-called emperors' saber.
In a gesture of appreciation for his loyalty, Napoleon gifted the pistols and a sword to Caulaincourt, and they remained with his family until the recent auction. The Osenat and Rossini auction houses have not disclosed the buyer's identity but have deemed the sale a success. This event follows the record-breaking sale of Napoleon's famous cocked hat for 1.932 million euros in November 2023, demonstrating the enduring allure of Napoleonic artifacts.
- The refusal of an export certificate for the pistols highlights France's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. This measure ensures that significant historical artifacts remain within the country, available for public viewing and scholarly research.
- The pistols' connection to a pivotal moment in Napoleon's life adds to their historical value. The night of April 12 to 13, 1814, marked a turning point for Napoleon, as he faced the consequences of his military defeats and the end of his reign.
- The sale of these pistols, along with other Napoleonic artifacts, continues to captivate collectors and historians alike. The high auction prices reflect the ongoing fascination with Napoleon's legacy and the historical significance of items linked to his life and reign.
