Image Lot Price Description








2089
$2,300.00

LARGE BRONZE MODEL OF FAMOUS CAPTURED BARBARY COAST CANNON FROM ALGIERS IN 1830.

One of the largest bronze cannon ever made, was “BABA MARZUG” (Lucky Father) and was made in Venice for the Algerian fortifications of their harbor. This massive gun measuring 23 feet long and weighing over 26,000lbs was the most powerful cannon in the Mediterranean and could fire a projectile 3 miles. Algiers was among the most powerful Barbary States, making much of their revenue by charging “tribute” to non-Muslim merchants from Europe. These “tribute” or bribes culminated in the Barbary Coast Wars 200 years later. This cannon had an infamous reputation as when diplomacy was not working well on two separate instances in the late 18th century. French consuls were tied to the muzzle of this cannon and blown to pieces as were other Frenchmen held as slaves who would not convert. In June of 1830, the French landed a large army with the intent of conquering Algiers, which they did on July 5th. Algiers would become the capital of the French colony and later country of Algeria. This massive cannon was renamed “LE CONSULAIRE” in remembrance of the French consuls killed. This cannon was taken as a trophy and became a monument at the French Arsenal at Brest, France where it is still displayed, though Algeria has requested its return. I don’t think France is giving it back any time soon. This model has French inscriptions of base ring and breech stating its capture, dimensions and name as can been seen in photos “Echell 3 d’un pouce pour pied” (Scale of 1 inch to the foot) “Elle pese” (She weighs)11,926 k..mes”. 11,926 kilograms (26,292 pounds). The only other known model is in the National Naval Museum in Paris. This model once in the collection of Hampton P. Howell, Jr. was on display at Ft. Ticonderoga. PROVENANCE: Hampton P. Howell, Jr.; Springfield Arsenal, LLC Artillery Collection. CONDITION: Cannon measures about 22″, 2-5/8″ breech, and weighs 20 lbs. Model is very good with old polish, markings all clear and discernible, and accompanying 4-wheeled wood carriage with brass fittings for trunnions is sound and solid. 4-54176 (4,000-6,000) – Lot 2089


Auction: Firearms - March 2015
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.