~ Mounted Bronze Ships Tompion – WW1/2 Italian Cruiser? ~
A round bronze tompion (a gun muzzle cover) with the image of a three masted galleon to the centre. The plaque is edged with a rope detail and mounted into a round wood frame with a wall hanging fitting.
The piece can be removed from the mount via two screws to the rear. There are no marking to the reverse of the brass to help identify the ship.
I initially though it was an American one, but those sail to the left. The Maltese cross on the stern implies it is probably from a Mediterranean based navy – Italian, Greek etc.
We would greatly appreciate any information about the ship, it has stumped us!
The size is about right for a heavy cruiser.
~ Dimensions ~
The tompion in its mount measures 11.5 inches (29cm) in diameter. The bronze itself measures 7.5 inches (19cm). The piece weighs 1.96kg.
~ Condition ~
The piece is in very good condition with the casting clean and detailed. There is some light surface scratching to the woodwork but the finish is overall fine.