Objekt 2119
Small cannon with a great history
Description
During the Burgundy Wars in 1474–77 Basel fought on the side of the Confederates
against Charles the Bold of Burgundy. In the battles of Grandson
and Murten in 1476, the Confederates managed to carry off masses of precious
objects and weapons. Basel also got its share of the Burgundian loot,
including this small gun barrel. It was later shortened and mounted on a
gun carriage, so it could be used for the city’s defence. Following its dire
experiences in the war-torn 15th century, Basel joined the Swiss Confederation
in 1501.
Object description
Cannon
Burgundian, 15th century (barrel), Basel, 16th century (gun carriage)
bronze, wood
old inventory
Inv. 1905.4975.