MUZZLE-LOADING CANNON

Origin: Boston, United States of America Cyrus Alger & Co Bronze 1266–77 AH/1850–60 CE The markings on the barrel of this 42-pounder cannon read ‘IMAUM OF MUSCAT’, ‘BOSTON’, ‘No. 611 52 US’, signifying that it was made in the United States by the Cyrus Alger & Co foundry of Boston, Massachusetts. The reference to the ‘Imaum of Muscat’ suggests that it was made to order for Sultan Sayyid Said bin Sultan al-Busaidi, Sultan of Oman and Zanzibar, who ruled from 1220–73 AH/1806–56 CE. The cannon dates from an important period in Omani maritime history. Oman was the second Arab country (after the Kingdom of Morocco) to establish diplomatic ties with the United States, sending the Sultan’s envoy on the sailing ship Sultanah which reached New York harbour in 1256 AH/1840 CE, an event which caused a great sensation and enhanced commercial as well as diplomatic relations between the two nations.

FALCONET CANNON

Maker: by Manuel Tavares Bocarro
Origin: Macau (China)
Bronze 1052–53 AH/1643 CE

This Portuguese falconet cannon was made by Manuel Tavares Bocarro in the arsenal of the Portuguese colony of Macau in 1052–53 Ah/1643 CE. The cannon is richly decorated with acanthus leaves on the muzzle swell, barrel and breech while the handles are designed to resemble Chinese-style lions. The hole around the vent is probably the result of an explosion. The words ‘viva el rei do ioao 4’ (long live king john iv) are inscribed on the breech of the cannon and a further inscription under the deity of the globe reads ‘macao’ followed by ‘encaza da polvra 1643’. The falconet was a lightweight cannon developed in the late 9th century AH/15th century CE for use on land and, eventually, at sea. It resembles an oversized matchlock musket.

DOUBLE-BARRELLED RIFLE

Maker: Winchester Repeating Arms Company Origin: New Haven, Connecticut (United States of America) Wood, nickel and steel 1271–1303 AH/1877–85 CE This Winchester 1876 deluxe model was made especially for Sultan Sayyid Turki bin Said al-Busaidi, Sultan of Muscat and Oman, and was a gift from Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States (1298–1303 AH/ 1881–85 CE). The rifle has a nickel frame engraved with scenes of hunting and wild animals. The brass label on the walnut stock reads: Presented by Chester A. Arthur. President of United States to His Majesty SEYUD TOORKEE BIN SEYUD. Sultan of Muscat in token of friendship.