16th–17th Century Bronze “Thunder Mug” Signal Cannon – Colonial Peru
Spanish Colonial Peru · circa 1500s–1700s
- Date
- Approximately 1500s–1700s
- Material
- Bronze / copper alloy
- Find Location
- Peru
- Type
- Thunder Mug / Signal Cannon
- Construction
- Heavy cast bronze
- Condition
- Extensive historic patination, oxidation, surface deposits, wear and casting irregularities consistent with age
- Availability
- One-of-a-kind — the exact artifact pictured
$725
- Authenticity Guaranteed
- Documented Provenance
- Collector Selected
Lot BFA-023
A genuine early bronze “thunder mug” or signal cannon found in Peru and dating approximately to the 16th–17th century.
This heavy cast-bronze example retains the classic compact form associated with thunder mugs, including a thick body, pronounced raised bands and broad flared base. Its irregular casting, extensive surface wear and deep dark patination give the piece tremendous visual character.
Areas of green oxidation and mineralization remain visible across the bronze, particularly around the lower portion of the body, while the surface preserves numerous marks and irregularities accumulated during its long history.
Thunder mugs were designed to produce an extremely loud report from a gunpowder charge and were historically employed for signaling, ceremonies, celebrations and similar purposes.
A substantial and visually impressive piece of early colonial material culture, ideal as a standalone display artifact or addition to a collection of Spanish colonial antiquities.
Important Notice
Sold strictly as a historical collectible and display artifact. It is not represented as functional, has not been tested for firing, and should never be loaded or fired under any circumstances.
- 01
Found in Peru; approximately 1500s–1700s.
- 02
Acquired by Black Flag Antiquities and offered exactly as found — uncleaned and unrestored.
- 01
Guaranteed to be a genuine period bronze thunder mug / signal cannon of the era stated.
- 02
Sold as a historical collectible and display artifact only — not functional, never to be loaded or fired.
- 03
The exact artifact pictured is the item the buyer will receive.
