Curiosities

French miniature cannon

€ 530

L 67 × B 30 × H 42 cm

A miniature model of a 17th-century French field cannon (Louis XIV model), crafted from brass/bronze and wood. Its construction combines solid cast brass with dark-stained wood, reinforced with metal fittings and fitted with two large, functional wooden spoked wheels. A decorative scroll on the upper surface of the barrel bears the inscription "LUDOVICUS XIV", meaning Louis XIV (the Sun King). Further towards the rear, the barrel features the French royal coat of arms with the inscription "ULTIMA RATIO REGUM" (the last argument of kings), the traditional motto that Louis XIV had cast on his cannons.