🐉 Pair of Chinese Imperial Style c.1890 Brass Signal Cannons on Cast Iron Dragon Carriage Mounts – Museum-Grade Display Artifacts

📌 Subject & Medium

Step into the drama and elegance of the late 19th century with this remarkable matched pair of Chinese signal cannons, crafted circa 1890. Likely created for ceremonial or high-status decorative use—possibly within a military, naval, or aristocratic context—these cannons are constructed from two exceptional materials: solid brass and cast iron. These are more than relics—they're commanding symbols of craftsmanship and cultural fusion.

🎨 Composition & Technique

Exemplifying Victorian-era artistry, this pair balances robust construction with dramatic visual storytelling:

• Brass Cannons:
  Each cannon features a solid brass barrel with a flared muzzle, multiple strengthening rings, and a classical silhouette. The warm, time-earned patina is accented by subtle verdigris, evoking a sense of age and authenticity.

• Dragon Carriages:
  The cast iron dragon mounts are sculptural masterpieces:

  • Muscular forms with detailed scales and flowing tails

  • Fierce expressions with open jaws and mythic energy

  • Integrated iron wheels beneath, blending practicality and art
    These dragon figures channel the 19th-century fascination with Eastern symbolism, turning utilitarian design into ceremonial display.

🏛️ Crafted to Impress

Designed to command attention, these were likely intended for prominent display—perhaps in a naval officer’s quarters, a colonial institution, or a prestigious private residence. Their presence is bold and theatrical—functional art that evokes strength, legacy, and lore.

📏 Dimensions of each cannon

• Length: 45.5 cm

• Height: 22.5 cm

• Width: 16.5 cm

• Weight: 10.55 kg (23.3 lbs)

📜 Provenance

Dating from the late Victorian era (circa 1890), these cannons are believed to have been produced in China for ceremonial or high-ranking decorative purposes. Their quality and imaginative design suggest they were reserved for elite collectors or institutions with naval or military ties. Recently sourced from a private northern English collection and curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

💖 Why You’ll Love Them

✅ Rare & Striking Aesthetic – An extraordinary pair unlike any other
✅ Commanding Display Presence – Ideal for studies, offices, libraries, or galleries
✅ Superb Craftsmanship – Every curve, scale, and contour speaks of Victorian mastery
✅ Powerful Conversation Pieces – Designed to inspire admiration and storytelling
✅ Legacy Quality – Timeless heirloom potential for home, garden, or collection

🔍 Condition

• Aged, well-worn antique patina throughout

• Brass barrels: solid, richly patinated, with historic scuffs and scratches

• Dragon carriages: significant surface rust and rust flaking and coloration enhancing period authenticity

• Structurally sound with no breaks, cracks, or repairs

• Wheels are rusted and no longer rotate

• Cannons tilt downward slightly

• For decorative display only – not functional or fireable
  📸 Please review photos carefully—what you see is exactly what you'll receive.

🌍 Worldwide Shipping Available
Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe international delivery.

🖼️ Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

📩 Inquire now to secure this piece