A very scarce and early flintlock breech loading rifle by Rene, dating: third quarter of the 17th Century, provenance: Southern Germany, dating: third quarter of the 17th Century, provenance: Southern Germany, Heavy, rifled (excellent conditions), three-stage, 15 mm cal. barrel, octagonal at the first part and then round, featuring a sixteen-side segment with ring at the nozzle, the first part signed 'David Rene Heidelberg' in cursive, engraved with floral motifs at the sides, adjustable and engraved rear-sight, brass foresight; turn-off; the base featuring octagonal vent and engraved; tang with engravings; long flintlock signed 'DAVID RENE HEIDELBERG', finely engraved with floral motifs and an angel; engraved with a snake at the hammer, spring and batterie carved with floral motifs; beautiful, iron counter-plate, richly carved, engraved and pierced with floral motifs on gold ground; wooden full stock with iron mounts, long, partially engraved and pierced trigger guard, pierced trigger; featuring a button to release and load the barrel under the lock, and a secure-lock at the back. Patchbox with wooden cover, grooved and sculpted with floral motifs. Original, wooden ramrod with iron mounts. , length 104 cm.