E. Jarry – Maison Petit Successor, Supplier of Lefaucheux System Firearms

Description

This invoice from 1877 comes from E. Jarry, successor to Maison Petit, a prominent gunmaker (arquebusier) in Niort, located at 22 Rue du Minage. The letterhead prominently references fusils Lefaucheux, showcasing the company's involvement with firearms using the innovative Lefaucheux breech-loading system, which was pivotal in the evolution of 19th-century firearms. E. Jarry, like many other gunmakers of the time, likely sold and serviced firearms that were either directly based on or inspired by Lefaucheux's system, which was known for its practicality and ease of use.

In addition to firearms, the invoice mentions a wide range of hunting articles and accessories, including wadding (amorces & bourres) and shotgun shells. The letterhead also features the mention of arms from Liège and St. Étienne, two cities renowned for their production of high-quality firearms, further indicating that E. Jarry offered a selection of goods from these respected arms manufacturing centers.

The specific items listed on this invoice are primarily cartridges (douilles), including 100 "centraux" and "grises," accompanied by various accessories. This combination of ammunition and accessories highlights E. Jarry’s role as a complete supplier for hunters and sportsmen, ensuring they had access not only to firearms but to all the necessary components for their use in the field.

Overall, this document reflects E. Jarry’s continuation of Maison Petit's legacy as a trusted supplier of Lefaucheux system firearms and related hunting supplies in late 19th-century France.