15th Century Mortar

This is an exceptionally early English Mortar dating from around 1450 and would have been in use probably until the end of the 16th Century. The mortar is unusual insofar as it has been hand forged and not cast and overall is 8" high with a 1.5" diameter bore within a 3.5" octagonal barrel. The mortar is marked with an incised cross and has a large touch hole and priming pan.
The mortar has a 15 Degree cant which indicates that some aggressive use was anticipated but it is believed that these were generally used for signalling and for advising time during encampment on campaign.
The piece is heavy and weighs more than 20 pounds, It is remarkable that this has survived and English ordnance of this age is scarce if not rare.

Code: 50153