Fragment Of Cannonball From The Siege Of Paris, 1871, With Museum/Collector’s Label
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A Fragment Of Cannonball From The Siege Of Paris, 1871, With Museum/Collector’s Label.
The Siege of Paris was a pivotal episode in the Franco-Prussian War, lasting from September 19, 1870, to January 28, 1871. After France’s defeat at the Battle of Sedan and the capture of Napoleon III, Prussian forces encircled the capital, aiming to force a swift French surrender and consolidate German unification.
Paris endured over four months of bombardment, starvation, and bitter winter conditions. As food supplies dwindled, residents resorted to consuming rats, pets, and even zoo animals. Even staples like bread had to be reinvented, with bakers stretching dwindling flour reserves with sawdust, starch, and powdered hay, producing coarse, bitter loaves that became a grim symbol of the siege’s desperation.
To maintain contact with the outside world, Parisians launched balloons and used carrier pigeons to carry messages over enemy lines. Despite several failed breakout attempts by the French National Guard, the siege ended in capitulation on January 28, 1871.
The siege remains a defining moment in French and European history.
Condition is as seen.
Measures 8.5cm x 5.5cm x 2.5cm
Weighs 500 grams