A notable Austrian deluxe hunting wheellock rifle by the Master of the Animal-head Scroll, circa 1640/50 The octagonal barrel slightly constricted in the middle with sixteen-groove rifled bore in 15.5 mm calibre. Openwork appliqués in fire-gilt brass, richly decorated in relief, at the muzzle and the breech. The lock with semi-internal wheel and an openwork iron covering. The lock plate and patch-box lid embellished with fine, openwork appliqués in gilt brass. Depictions of mythical creatures amidst leafy vines. The original finish on the inside of the lock, the main spring blued. Set trigger, the release does not engage. Extremely lavishly carved stock of ebonised wood. Depictions of different indigenous and exotic wild animals as well as mythical creatures amidst leafy vines. A plaque with fine bone inlays (minor defects) on the cheek piece. A recumbent lion and other beasts surrounded by fine curled shavings. Well restored chipping around the trigger guard, which is probably an old replacement. The ramrod pipes delicately engraved, original ramrod with an engraved, gilt brass tip. Length 106 cm. Without doubt, given the style of the stock, this rifle may be attributed to the famous 'Master of the animal-head scroll', whose works are documented between 1624 and 1659. It is today assumed that he was active at the imperial court of Vienna. His works can be found in numerous major international collections, such as the exhibits of the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Cf. Hayward, J. F., "The art of the gunmaker", volume I, p. 98 f. Provenance: Czerny's Auctions, June 2012, lot 991. Condition: II