Presented is a bronze barreled elegant small signal cannon mounted on a simple naval-type carriage. The trunnions are placed below the center line of the barrel which indicates that it was likely made prior to 1725. The canon shows lots of dings and abrasions indicating some serious use. There is a cartouche on the reinforcing trunnion band top and bottom that we haven’t been able to identify, but appears to be hand done. It may be someone’s personal insignia. We think the carriage is of a much more modern construct of simple design with brass bands and no trunnion caps.

SIGNIFICANCE OF TRUNNION PLACEMENT: Trunnions are the cylinders projecting from the side of the tube. They were first introduced in cannons in 1705. Their placement on the barrel helps to date when the cannon was made. Before 1725 they were located low down as in this case. 1725, is when the so-called Cronstedt system was established. After the Cronstedt system was established, trunnions were placed in the middle of the tube just forward of the center of mass. Based on the location of the trunnions, it can be concluded that most cannons with this placement were likely cast before 1725. When it comes to the building material of the cannons, the Cronstedt system focused on those made out of iron only. Since this cannon is of bronze, the dating is not entirely conclusive and we believe it was made late in the seventeenth century.This fine old cannon is being sold for display purposes only. No attempt should be made to fire it without examination by a reputable gunsmith

CONDITION:  The touch hole is open to the bore. The wood carriage with wood-painted wheels is in excellent condition. There are the expected marks of age consisting of old small dings on the top and bottom of the barrel. The bronze has a pleasing patina ranging in color from light to dark black. There is indication of both use and age and that it has been fired, which we do not recommend.