An antique late 18th C. Cannon Bronze (Lantaka) Ships Swivel/Rail Gun - a unique piece of history. Perfect for collectors. This solid bronze Cannon from the 18th century is a powerful weapon and a beautiful statement piece. Originally Crafted by Dutch East India Company, they were exported to Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines and later on cast in Indonesia by Dutch colonists and local people. This example has elaborate decoration with prominent muzzle and matching cascabel. Its exquisite cast details make it a perfect decoration for your garden or interior, and the fact that it was a symbol of wealth and currency, makes it an amazing addition to any collection. Circa: Late 17th early 18th century. Condition: Good antique condition, looks to have been cleaned sometime in its history. Size: 48" long x 4 3/4" wide max. The Gimbal spike protrudes 8". Weight: Very heavy at around 16kgs. Shipping: CALL FOR UK SHIPPING COST. NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING.
Lantaka or rentaka were a type of bronze swivel gun mounted on merchant vessels and warships in maritime South East Asia and were commonly equipped by native seafaring vessels from Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
Typically the earliest vintage cannons lantaka with beautiful ornaments from this region are from foundries in Melaka and Pahang. Many are from foundries in the Netherlands and Portugal. Next from their respective settlements, and finally from Brunei and other local craftsmen. However, there were also double-barreled variants that were used extensively in the Philippines. In Malaysia, these double-barreled variants are called Meriam Lela.
The Dutch and Portuguese quickly learned that they could trade cannons for spices and porcelain. As well as for safe passage through pirate infested waters. Local foundries continued to produce guns, using local patterns and designs from other local brass and bronze objects. Stylized crocodiles, dolphins, birds and dragons were common motifs.
