I have had in my possession for a number of years an engraved swiss luger that was done by E.C. Prudhomme of Shreveport, La. I am aware that he is deceased, and I am aware that he had a close association with the R.W.Norton Art Gallery in Shreveport. I contacted the Gallery, but did not receive much cooperation in locating his records of engraving. I am assuming that there were probably records kept of what he engraved, when, and who for if commissioned. The particular gun has a set of initials on a grip plate, and I would like to trace back the history of this piece. I cannot find an address or phone number of any of his family members. I know of one close associate, and that John T. Amber, former editor of Gun Digest, but I can't find him either. I just have a feeling that his records are out there somewhere, I just need the right lead. Thanks, Jim Brown (junglejim@midohio.net)

James Brown
5/8/2006 9:09:31 PM

Jim,
I do know that his daughter is living but I don't have any contact information for you. Perhaps some pestering from the Norton Gallery will get this. Also, John Amber has passed away as well. Not much help but hope this gives you some direction.

Rex Pedersen
5/9/2006 9:15:38 AM

James.
There is a book by Prudhomme," Gun Engraving Review," first published in 1961. My copy was published in 1994 by R & R Books and it's ISBN #1-884849-13-X.
You should be able to find a copy with a book search. You may find this volumn helpful. It has many picture of his engraved guns as well as those of other engravers of that era.
Best of luck with your search.
John.

John Barraclough
5/9/2006 11:44:26 AM

Rex and John, thanks for the responses. I have Prudhomme's book, and also the Norton Gallery published a book of Mr. Prudhomme's work which I also have. I guess I need to to go back to the Norton Art Gallery and be more of a pest.

James Brown
5/10/2006 4:33:13 AM

James, you might check with Ron Smith. I think he knew Jack fairly well and might be able to make suggestions. S

Sam Welch
5/10/2006 8:28:50 AM

Thanks Sam. I don't see an email address or phone number for Ron Smith under his listing, just a mailing address. Does he have an email address or a listed phone number? Thanks, Jim

James Brown
5/12/2006 12:28:28 AM

James, he doesn't have email so you will have to write to him, or call information for his phone number. S

Sam Welch
5/12/2006 8:34:39 AM