A CANNON WITH INLAID DECORATION, INDIAN, MUGHAL EMPIRE, 18TH...

Estimate

£5,000 - £10,000

A CANNON WITH INLAID DECORATION, INDIAN, MUGHAL EMPIRE, 18TH CENTURY, Fashioned from cast steel in a conventional design, the cannon featuring a sleek, unadorned barrel, elevated to a work of art with the meticulous brass inlay embellishments gracing its surface, comprising Quranic verses (Surah 61, v. 13), notably, a grand bouquet motif adorning the base of the barrel, adding a touch of elegance to its appearance, exhibiting some signs of age, including some corrosion and minor losses in the inlay work, overall length measuring an impressive 75cm, it is believed to be from the Indian Mughal Era and presumed to originate from India, Deccan , tracing its lineage back to the 18th century, the Arabic inscription on the barrel is a recurring motif often encountered Indian firearms, drives from the verse 13 of Surah 61 (The Ranks), conveying the message of divine assistance and swift triumph
One South Indian Mughal dagger (khanjar) featured calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran 61.v.13, supposedly to gain "Help from Allah and a speedy victory at Metropolitan Museum Accession Number: 36.25.696. featured design 18th century helmet at Metropolitan Museum Accession Number: 1988.147
Gahir, Sunita; Spencer, Sharon, eds. (2006). Weapon - A Visual History of Arms and Armor. New York City:DK Publishing. p. 268. ISBN 9780756622107.