December 10, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2019
This fine Scottish bronze 3 pounder ship’s cannon was cast by the well known Scottish firm of Miller and Pearce measuring 51-1/2" from end of cascabel to the beautifully turned cannon muzzle. This is a cannon made to be used with ultra-smooth perfectly cast bore and fitted with a percussion nipple in the touch-hole and a bronze striker mechanism. Miller & Pearce were exhibitors at the 1862 International Exhibition and are listed in the ‘Official Catalog of the Fine Art Department: International Exhibition 1862’. Although the catalog entry is for Miller & Pearce's bronze ship’s fire pump undoubtedly the Scottish firm also exhibited this very bronze cannon on its elaborate carriage. The carriage is case and pierced with rococo scrollwork and features a beautifully engraved bronze plaque with “MILLER&PEARCE GLASGOW”. The bronze tube has three reinforces and retains its original elevation screw. Dimensions: 51-1/2" overall. Bore Diameter: 2-1/2". Wall thickness at muzzle: 1-1/2". Diameter at breech: 7". Diameter at muzzle: 5-3/4". Weight of tube: Approximately 200 pounds. CONDITION: Barrel has a magnificent even smooth green patina throughout and is in perfect condition. Nipple is rusted from outdoor display. Carriage is patinated with minor damage to one iron wheel. This cannon was placed at the entrance to Dr. Jack Strassman’s home in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Dr. Strassman’s magnificent collection of firearms was sold at Christie’s East in May 1986. The cannon was too large and heavy to move and remained with the home. It is a great bronze cannon suitable for display indoors or outdoors or for use by expert cannoneers only.
This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.