Model of a Dahlgren Howitzer

A fine and original working model of a Dahlgren Howitzer Gun, the trajectory of the bronze cannon adjustable through the threaded lift to the rear, set upon a mahogany carriage with bronze wheels and fittings. Dated to the front of the carriage, ‘1855’.

Barrel length 6 inches.

Designed for the United States Navy by Rear Admiral John A. Dahlgren, these muzzle-loading naval guns were mostly used in the American Civil War.
Dahlgren felt compelled to develop his gun after witnessing the death of a gunner in 1849 when a gun he was testing exploded.
The resulting guns had a smooth curved shape, reminiscent of the soda bottle after which they were nicknamed, the most metal being concentrated towards the breech end where the greatest pressure from the propellant gasses was exerted.

This model probably American, circa 1855.