An Ottoman bronze mortar cannon, with the tughra of Abdul Mecid (r.1839-61), Turkey, 19th century or earlier

the cannon with moulded muzzle and astragals, a pair of trunions, the body incised with the tughra of Abdul Mecid (r.1839-61) and the number "53", on wooden carriage

wooden carriage with splitting and abrasion consistent with age, minor dents and abrasions to surface of cannon, with areas of patination and rubbing, as viewed
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Another Ottoman mortar cannon sold in these rooms, 13 October 2004, lot 157. A further example, quite similar to the present, also with the tughra of Sultan Abdul Mecid but of earlier 17th-century manufacture, is to be found in the Askeri Müzesi (Military Museum) in Istanbul (see Bodur, F., Türk Maden Sanati. The Art of Turkish Metalworking, Istanbul, p.47)