Lorenz Kafka has delved into Long Rifle iconography more than anyone I know of. Jim Whisker had touched on the subject a time or two, if I recall correctly, but without any definitive statement about it. Lorenz has woven together a body of information and beliefs about patch box engraving, designs, carving, and inlays bringing philosophy, mysticism, and religion into a body of ideas that explain the ornamentation of the long rifle. He has his detractors. I have spoken to him a time for two about some specific ornament that he felt that he could explain. It is a matter that I did not pursue since I live so far from him. A subject for a future dialog with him, to be sure.
Dick
