Model of a 16-cm Gun and Carriage 1863

This is a model of a 16-cm Gun and Carriage, made at Rijkswerf Amsterdam, most likely sometime in the 19th century. As you can see, the gun barrel is brass, while the carriage is made of wood, joined with metal pins and fittings. The contrast between these materials is key to its impact. Brass is a relatively soft metal, easily cast and machined, and capable of taking a fine polish. The wooden components, though simple in form, would have required considerable skill to fabricate, especially the wheels. It is a reminder that before the age of automation, even basic carpentry called for considerable dexterity. The model is meticulously made, and one imagines that its maker had first-hand experience of the real thing. Which raises an interesting question: was this made as a demonstration piece, a presentation object, or perhaps even as a toy? Whatever the answer, it’s a fascinating reminder that even instruments of war can be objects of careful craft.