Derek Stimpson (3 results)

Hardcover. Condition: Very Good. Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good. 1st Edition. Oversized hardcover, viii + 96pp + 16 pages of colour plates, numerous b&w illustrations in text, glossy paper, NOT ex-library. Missing the front endpaper. Else clean and bright with unmarked text, free of inscriptions and stamps, firmly bound. Dust jacket shows light wear. -- The book chronicles the legacy of one of London's ancient livery companies. It serves as a historical record of the organisation's influence on the firearms trade and public safety from its charter in 1637 through 2007. Core Themes and Historical Context: The volume explores the unique position of the Gunmakers' Company as one of the few livery companies that still actively exercises regulatory powers in its traditional field. The Proof House: A significant focus is placed on the London Proof House in Whitechapel, where the Company continues its centuries-old role of testing ("proving") firearm barrels for public safety. Trade Regulation: The book details the Company's origins in protecting its members' trade by challenging unauthorized gunmakers in London and maintaining industry standards. Charitable Legacy: It also covers the establishment of The Gunmakers Trust in 2003, which aims to preserve and support traditional gunmaking craft skills. As an official history, the work is designed for both academic researchers and members of the livery. The text is extensively illustrated with colour plates and black-and-white figures, including historical photos of the Proof House and maritime gunmaking records.

10.5 x 8.75 inches. In blue cloth covers with gilt to spine. With illustrated dustwrapper. In near fine condition with very good dustwrapper. (d/w. Slight rubbing and small marks. Not price clipped). Else a very clean and tight copy. 96pp. With b/w & colour photographs within text.

Hardcover. Condition: As New. 4to, pp,viii,96, illustrated many of which are in colour, gilt titled blue cloth, pictorial unclipped dust-jacket.