1. The history of the ownership of an object, especially when documented or authenticated. Used of artworks, antiques, and books.
2. The records or documents authenticating such an object or the history of its ownership. Place of origin; derivation.

 

I would love to say that the Biesen shop provided the same exact type of documentation for every item sold.  But, that was clearly not the case.  In the early years, a customer might have had written correspondence with Al typed on his letterhead detailing confirmation of the order and specifications desired - Some times, many letters over many years.

 

Roger may have kept notes on a project in his cigar box filing system.  (His notes in his writing only for him to understand.) A disorganized system at best. He did write many receipts, but spent a lot of his time, producing butt plates and grip caps for the custom gun makers.  By his own admission, he hated paperwork.

 

It is hard to prove provenance on Biesen projects only because: 1) having custom wood carved on a Biesen stock pattern could be easily ordered and acquired; 2) Biesen butt plates and grip caps could also be purchased; 3) If you needed assistance or had questions Al and Roger would help you "copy" what you liked, or even what Jack O'Connor liked, etc.

 

Additionally, It is not uncommon to see a gun built by someone else with my engraving on it, portrayed as a Biesen when listed for sale.  I engraved many projects that were not customized by my father or grandfather, so please... "buyer beware".

 

Paula Biesen-Malicki