A large and unusual noonday cannon, measuring circa 30cm in length and weighing circa 7Kg, purpose built to announce noon by concentrating the sun's rays on the pan of gunpowder that then ignites and sends a blast that can be heard from a considerable distance. Such instruments reached the height of their popularity in the 18th and 19th century when pocket watches were not always accurate. They were used in public parks to signal noon and on large private estates to announce lunchtime. Weight: 6970g object 1543g case Note: The Duke of Orleans commissioned a solar gun in 1786 which was installed in Paris during the development of the galleries and gardens at the Palais Royal. Many Parisians attended this scientific attraction. In 1891, the time indicated by the Canon of the Royal Palace was extended to all France, it ceased to resound in 1911, France having adopted the mean time of Greenwich. One is kept at the Museum of Arts and Crafts in Paris, a more sophisticated version kept at the Louvre. Condition: Generally in a good but used condition, some small parts missing, some parts replaced (such as the compass). The transportation case is of a later date. This lot will be carefully packaged and sent by registered and insured mail.