La Consulaire, Bronze cannon monument in Brest, France
La Consulaire is a bronze cannon standing upright on a granite base in the Brest Arsenal. The pedestal features four bronze bas-reliefs showing scenes of French military and naval forces along with allegorical imagery from the period.
The cannon was cast in the 16th century and originally known as Baba Merzoug in Algeria. It arrived in Brest in 1833 following the French conquest of Algiers.
The bronze reliefs at the base illustrate allegorical scenes, including a representation of France bringing enlightenment to Africa, reflecting colonial perspectives of the period.
The cannon is located within the Brest military arsenal grounds and can be viewed from outside. The site is easily accessible and provides good views of the gun and its detailed bronze reliefs.
This cannon is the only surviving example of its type in Europe, as other similar pieces were melted down for their metal. Its survival across the centuries makes it a rare record of early weapons manufacturing.
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