This rifle was built in the style of several pieces by Jacob George, circa 1810 to 1820. These rifles share features of both Lehigh and eastern Berks county, including a gently stepped and soft diamond wrist shape. Upon handling several originals, it is clear that they were built quickly. Though fully decorated and carved, they're nearly all what I would consider sloppy in fit and finish. I found it refreshing, though in my own interpretation I broke with George's shabby quality and smoothed out the carving design and engraved details. All hardware was custom made or modified to suit the style. The stock was carved in a form of "negative relief" and incised style, with a custom half-circle stamp outlining many of the details.  The entire rifle was given a moderate patina finish, indicative of an original oxidized tinted oil varnish that had been worn through handling over the years - no chips or cracks however. The engraved figure on the box lid is my own design that evolved as a blend of two original rifles from this region. 

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