December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/14/2022
Hand cannons like these were amongst the first form of firearm, and would be mounted on a wooden pole before igniting with a match, unleashing an incredible amount of smoke and noise. This example is made of hand wrought iron, with 4 raised reinforcing rings and a crude seam for mounting on shaft. No markings, but construction is indicative of Ming Dynasty, probably 17th century. CONDITION: Metal has an areas of oxidation with pockmarks, delamination, and evidence of handforging throughout. Weighs 9 lbs 10 oz. Bore is clear and air flows through well. A nice example. Formerly part of the Allan Klein collection.