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"THE RHODIUM FLASH" by Mueller Murgenthal
AN EXCEPTIONAL AND UNIQUE RHODIUM AND GOLD-PLATED PRESENTATION RIFLE WITH STERLING SILVER STOCK, serial no. K000590, based on the design of the Blaser R93 and chambered for .30-06 calibre, 'The Rhodium Flash' is an extraordinary example of an objet d'art seated within the realm of weaponry, as specialised in by the Swiss design house of Mueller Murgenthal. It is a fine example of the seamless meshing of traditional silversmithing with modern gunmaking and conceptual artistry to create sublime works of art, a trademark of designer Vivian Mueller.

This unique full metal bodied rifle is stocked with sterling silver and plated in rhodium and 24 carat gold. The ornate decoration, hand engraved and chased by Vivian Mueller, consists of detailed bold arabesques on a matted background, interspersed with ribbons, beaded borders and wheat ear motifs, the top of the fore-end carved with a shell, the gold-plated open sights decorated en-suite. The rifle is presented in a full length case with suede effect interior. It is also supplied with a fully illustrated book detailing the concept and manufacturing processes involved in the design and construction of this remarkable piece.

Other Notes: 'Rhodium Flash' takes its name from the process of plating precious metals with Rhodium to give them a distinctive reflective white surface. Rhodium, a member of the Platinum group is one the most expensive precious metals, with approximately three times the value of an equivalent weight of platinum. It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston. Wollaston wrote in his notebook on June 14, 1804 that he named the metal after its "rose-coloured residue." (the Greek word 'rhodon' meaning 'rose'). It is traditionally used decoratively in exceptional circumstances, when more available materials such as gold, silver or platinum are deemed insufficient. In 1979, Sir Paul McCartney was presented with a rhodium album by the Guinness Book of records in recognition of his being the all time best selling recording artist and songwriter.

Estimate £50,000-70,000

http://auctions.holtandcompany.co.uk/asp...527&image=2

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