Cannon

Era: 18th–19th centuries (Tay Son – Nguyen period)
Material: Copper
Dimensions: Length 295 cm; barrel diameter 26 cm
Discovery site: Quy Nhon Port in 2010
Current location: Gia Lai Provincial Museum

Description

This cannon was discovered by Mr. Phan Van Dang at Quy Nhon Port in 2010. It was subsequently acquired, preserved, and displayed at the Binh Dinh Provincial Museum (now the Gia Lai Provincial Museum).

The cannon is cast as a single piece of bronze, featuring an elongated shape that tapers toward the muzzle. Raised ridges encircle its body. Two cylindrical trunnions are positioned on the sides to connect the weapon to its mount or carriage, while two handles—shaped and decorated to resemble the *kylin* (a mythical creature)—serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

The casting technique, construction, and function of the cannon reflect the advanced state of metallurgy and firearm manufacturing during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Existing records indicate that the cannon is of Western origin and is believed to have been used by the Tay Son army in naval engagements within the Thi Nai Lagoon area during the late 18th century.