*South-East Asian, c.18th–19th century, Bronze Lantaka (Portable Swivel Gun/Cannon), 40.5 cm — Bronze*
Compact South-East Asian bronze lantaka (swivel gun), c.18th–19thC — 40.5 cm, original swivel bracket and rich bronze patina.
A compact South-East Asian bronze swivel gun, commonly referred to as a lantaka. Cast in a single piece with a fitted swivel bracket and integral vent/plug, the gun measures 40.5 cm in overall length with a maximum muzzle/heel diameter approximately 6.5 cm. The profile displays classic lantaka features — a stepped muzzle, short bottle neck and a flared, scalloped breech end — and a bolted/hinged lug for mounting on a wooden carriage or swivel pin. The patina is a warm, mature bronze with areas of darker oxidation and green verdigris, consistent with long term exposure and age. This is a tactile example of a small, hand-portable cannon used across the Malay Archipelago and Philippines for shipboard and village defence.
Historical note: Lantaka (and similar swivel guns) were widely produced in the Indonesia / Malay / Philippine archipelago from the 17th century onwards and remained in local use into the 19th century. They were produced both for practical defence aboard small craft and for local ceremonial and status display; small sizes such as this one were commonly mounted to timbers or fixed to trading vessels and river boats. Many were cast in bronze or brass and show regional stylistic variations — scalloped breeches, fitted trunnion brackets and simple touch-hole fittings — reflecting local foundry traditions. This example, with its fixed swivel bracket and compact length, is typical of a late-pre-industrial, locally cast lantaka intended for shipboard or riverside use rather than heavy shore batteries.
*Condition* Overall good condition. The barrel is structurally sound with no visible hairline fractures; the integral swivel bracket and pin are present and functional, though the bracket shows wear consistent with historic mounting. The muzzle/breech rims are have minor dents, knocks and small chips to the scalloped edge consistent with long-term handling and use. Surface preservation is original — a warm, uneven bronze patina with scattered green verdigris, light pitting and pockets of residual accreted concretions. The original wooden carriage or fittings are not present. The piece has not been aggressively cleaned and retains desirable surface evidence of age and provenance. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
