A Bronze Cannon for Light Field or Ceremonial Use, dated 1574

3418
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Item ref: 3418

  • South Germany
  • Bronze
  • 138 cm / 54.3 in

Provenance:

Private collection, Europe

Cast in relief, in the South German fashion exemplified by Lienhart Peringer of Landshut and Gregor and Hans Christof Löffler of Innsbruck
The pleasing proportions of this barrel, together with its small but meaningful bore size indicate that it may have been used as a field piece as much as for firing ceremonial salutes.
There is no doubt that the present cannon was cast in a foundry within the circle of influence of either of these three leading makers, and conceivably even by one of these in person. Regrettably the abbreviated inscription which is cast on a scroll over the reinforce section of the barrel proves enigmatic. While it is possible to decode the probable lesser words, no appropriately lettered name is linked to the coat-of-arms beneath. Given the very close proximity of the inscription to the arms it seems more likely that the inscription will refer to the owner of these arms, or to his motto, rather than to the bronze founder.

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