Pair Chinese Dragon Signal Cannons C.1890 Brass Artillery On Ornate Iron Mount
Stock No
CACL532
2023
- £2,500.00
- €2,919 Euro
- $3,367 US Dollar
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Item Description
🐉 Chinese Dragon Signal Cannons (c.1890) – Brass Artillery on Ornate Iron Mounts
An extraordinary pair of late 19th-century ceremonial cannons marrying myth, metal, and military grandeur.
📌 Overview: Exceptional 19th-Century Display Cannons
Step into the drama and opulence of the Victorian era with this remarkable matched pair of Chinese signal cannons, crafted circa 1890. Designed for ceremonial or decorative use—likely within naval, military, or aristocratic settings—these pieces are both functional art and captivating symbols of power.
🎨 Materials & Craftsmanship
Brass Cannon Barrels
Each cannon boasts a solid brass barrel in traditional artillery form:
Flared muzzle
Reinforcing rings
Symmetrical, historically accurate silhouette
The brass has aged with elegance, developing a warm patina and light verdigris, adding rich authenticity without compromising structural integrity.
Cast Iron Dragon Carriages
The true centerpieces are the elaborate cast iron carriages, sculpted as fierce dragons:
Muscular bodies with scaled textures
Snarling faces and open jaws
Flowing tails that curve into sculptural supports
Discreetly integrated, though non-functional, iron wheels
These dragons reflect Victorian fascination with Eastern mythology—infusing the cannons with a sense of legend and ceremony.
🏛 Historical Provenance
Produced in China around 1890, these pieces likely adorned the quarters of a naval officer, a colonial estate, or a prestigious institution. Their materials and exceptional artistry suggest they were designed for high-status display. From a private Northern English collection, carefully curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
📏 Dimensions (Each Cannon)
Length: 45.5 cm
Height: 22.5 cm
Width: 16.5 cm
Weight: 10.55 kg (23.3 lbs)
💖 Why You’ll Love These
✅ Unrepeatable Rarity – A striking and unique matched pair with mythological flair
✅ Timeless Statement Décor – Perfect for a library, study, office, or curated gallery space
✅ 19th-Century Mastery – Outstanding craftsmanship across both brass and cast iron elements
✅ Symbolic & Impressive – Dragons, cannons, history, and art—these demand admiration
✅ Legacy-Worthy Collectibles – Ideal for serious collectors of military, maritime, or Chinese antiques
🔍 Condition Overview
Authentic antique patina across brass and iron
Brass shows minor scuffs, scratches, and light verdigris
Iron carriages show surface rust and oxidation—enhancing vintage appeal
Structurally sound with no cracks, breaks, or repairs
Wheels are rusted and non-turning
Cannons tilt slightly forward due to original carriage design
Display use only – not capable of firing
Please refer closely to photos for complete condition details.
🌍 Worldwide Shipping Available
Professionally packaged and fully insured for global delivery.
Item Info
Seller Location
Covent Garden, London
Item Dimensions
H: 22.5cm W: 16.5cm D: 45.5cm
Period
1890
Item Location
United Kingdom
Seller Location
Covent Garden, London
Item Location
United Kingdom
Seller Contact No
+44 (0)7494 763382
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