Shooting stars

Tomorrow in London, Christie's is auctioning off the last four shotguns produced by Asprey. The double-barreled 12-, 16- and 20-bore guns on offer (pictured), estimated at $49,000 to $69,000 each, feature walnut stocks and silver scrollwork, and "mark the end of a tradition of impeccably executed gun craft," Christie's notes. Asprey closed its gun rooms in 1996, shortly after the British luxury-goods maker was acquired by Prince Jefri of Brunei. It's little wonder: These are, admittedly, prices fit for a ruleras it turns out, both Prince Charles and George Bush are fans.






