Continental bronze salute cannon

A beautifully cast and unusually heavy Continental bronze salute cannon, dating to circa 1700 to 1720. The piece features an elongated barrel with a tapering muzzle and is fitted with two finely modelled dolphin-form handles to the top. The rear of the barrel is finished with a double-ringed cascabel and a rounded terminal knob. Small bronze cannons of this type were used for ceremonial and festive purposes, including firing salutes to welcome guests, mark the beginning of celebrations, and occasionally signal the time. This example is particularly appealing for its substantial proportions and superb, naturally developed patina. The precise origin of the cannon is unknown, although it comes from a French private collection.