Bronze Cannon with Fleur-de-Lis
2023 © Maxim Tabachnik
Ornate Childs Armour for Louis XIIILes InvalidesRoyal Chapel of Les InvalidesLion Armour of Francis IReinforced Half-Armour of Henry IVCeremonial Armour of Louis XIVNapoleon in Coronation RobesDecorated Armour of Cardinal RichelieuArmour of King Charles IXMamluk Cavalry and Horse ArmorBronze Cannon with Fleur-de-Lis

Bronze Cannon with Fleur-de-Lis

704
Cast in the 17th c., this bronze cannon is richly decorated with fleur-de-lis, the emblem of the French monarchy. Beyond its military function, it symbolized royal power projected through technology and force. Its ornamentation affirmed the divine right of kings, turning a weapon into a statement of political theology and dynastic pride.