Lot 397

Description

Indonesian Lantaka Cannon, c18th century, a portable cannon (length 125cm; barrel opening 4cm), made in bronze with cast twin dragons for lifting handles, mounted on a modern made-to-fit metal stand, this item and its stand are very heavy. Some age toning, otherwise good fine.

A Lantaka is a type of bronze cannon that was mounted on merchant vessels travelling the waterways of the Malay Archipelago. They were used in great numbers and various sizes in pre-colonial South East Asia especially in Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. They were mainly used to defend against pirates demanding tribute for the local chief, or potentate. They were usually mounted with a swivel post and yoke to be set up anywhere on a ship or fortification.
No mail out for this lot, collection only from Sydney Office, or buyer to make own arrangements.