A Thing of Beauty

beauty is a joy forever: Its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness.” These words by the 18th century English poet, John Keats, sprang to mind as I turned over in my hands one of the most impressive rifles I had yet seen. Made by Mus-grave, it was a classic in every sense of the word: Mauser 98 action, a heavy barrel in one of the most iconic calibres ever, with a stock that in itself was a pleasure to behold. In my mind, a thing of beauty becomes more valued if designed and created to serve a useful purpose, rather than merely to be admired. Yet it was a mystery rifle in terms of its provenance – a work of art that stirred the imagination. The serial number suggested it was created for a specific personage, possibly associated with an event or historical occasion. This article is about