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Bronze Saker cannon, 1530 circa (bronze)
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Bronze Saker cannon, 1530 circa (bronze)
5920465 Bronze Saker cannon, 1530 circa (bronze) by English School, (16th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Bronze Saker cannon, 1530 circa.
Barrel cast 1538. Manufactured by John and Robert Owen.
The barrel of this bronze saker cannon, manufactured in London around 1530, is inscribed with a Tudor rose and a monogram of King Henry VIII. In the 16th century cannon were given the names of birds; a A sakerA was a type of hawk. The saker fired solid iron shot, weighing between 1.8 and 2.7 kg (4-6 lb). These would not explode on impact, but would bounce along the ground.
They would continue bouncing until they crashed into something A- or someone. Cannon balls could smash through stone, brick, flesh and bone with ease, but might be stopped by gabions, defensive baskets filled with earth.); eNational Army Museum; English, out of copyright
Media ID 22567980
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a Bronze Saker cannon, believed to be from around 1530. The barrel of this magnificent artillery piece is adorned with intricate inscriptions, including a Tudor rose and the monogram of King Henry VIII. Manufactured by John and Robert Owen in London, this cannon represents the military prowess and grandeur of the Tudor era. In the 16th century, cannons were often named after birds, with "saker" referring to a type of hawk. This particular saker was designed to fire solid iron shot weighing between 1.8 and 2.7 kg (4-6 lb). Unlike explosive projectiles, these iron shots would bounce along the ground upon impact until they collided with an obstacle or unfortunate individual. Cannon balls during that time possessed immense destructive power capable of penetrating stone walls, brick fortifications, as well as causing severe damage to human flesh and bone. However, defensive baskets filled with earth known as gabions could sometimes halt their trajectory. The historical significance of this bronze saker cannon cannot be overstated; it serves as a testament to both technological advancements in warfare during the Renaissance period and England's royal lineage under King Henry VIII's reign. Displayed at the National Army Museum in London, this remarkable artifact offers viewers an opportunity to delve into centuries-old military strategies while marveling at its exquisite design featuring elements such as roses and royal monograms.
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