16th–17th Century Inscribed Bronze “Thunder Mug” – Peru – “MC MM” Initials
Spanish Colonial Peru · circa 1500s–1700s
- Date
- Approximately 1500s–1700s
- Material
- Bronze / copper alloy
- Find Location
- Peru
- Type
- Thunder Mug / Signal Cannon
- Inscription
- “MC MM”
- Condition
- Heavy historic patina, oxidation, deposits and surface wear consistent with age
- Availability
- One-of-a-kind — the exact artifact pictured
$775
- Authenticity Guaranteed
- Documented Provenance
- Collector Selected
Lot BFA-022
An exceptionally characterful 16th–17th century bronze “thunder mug” or signal cannon found in Peru, prominently engraved with the initials or inscription “MC MM” across the body.
The deeply incised lettering immediately distinguishes this example from an unmarked thunder mug and may represent historic ownership, identification, or another period marking. The lettering remains remarkably prominent against the dark aged surface.
Heavy molded bands and the flared base give the piece a particularly imposing profile, while centuries of patination, oxidation, surface deposits and wear provide an unmistakably aged appearance.
Thunder mugs were compact bronze devices designed to produce an extremely loud explosive report from a gunpowder charge and were historically associated with signaling, ceremonies and celebrations.
The prominent hand-cut inscription gives this piece considerably more individual character than an anonymous example and makes it an excellent centerpiece for an early colonial or maritime collection.
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.
