French Falconet

This early 17th century muzzle loading gun is made of iron, with a smooth bore of 1.4 inches. It is likely to have fired a shot weighing up to one pound (450g). 

A number of gun types of this period were named after birds of prey. This one appears to be what was known as a Falconet in parts of Europe (although its size is perhaps closer to a Robinet in English terms).

It has always been assumed that this gun was French, since the muzzle half of the barrel is octagonal in section (a typical French design) and the carriage is decorated with a Fleur de Lys design. However, it could have been produced elsewhere in Europe, possibly for a French client.

The carriage is of particular interest, with a swivel mount allowing the gun to turn full circle. It also has an ornate, and very early, elevating device based on a ratchet mechanism with a separate screw for fine adjustments. This is significant, since most gun barrels were still elevated using a quoin (a wedge-shaped block of wood placed under the breech) until around the 1750s. 

Our records note that the carriage was repaired at the Royal Carriage Department in 1862.

This piece had been in storage for twenty-five years, but was recently placed on display at Wood Road and can be seen by visitors on our guided tours and open days.