Model, Rocket, Ram, Giovanni da Fontana's, Ca. 1420 A.D.

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page .

IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and media viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. Visit the IIIF page to learn more.

View manifest View in Mirador Viewer

Object Details

Manufacturer

George Marsden Design

Summary

This is a model of the rocket ram proposed by the early 15th century Italian military engineer Giovanni da Fontana in his sketchbook finished in 1420. The ram, or rocket car, was made of wood and was meant to help break down or breach the walls or gates of enemy fortifications. It ran on rollers and was propelled by a rocket.

Da Fontana apparently never built the device. The model was built especially for the National Air and Space Museum and was donated to the Museum in 1976 by the George Marsden Design Company.

Credit Line

George Marsden Design

Inventory Number

A19762055000

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply

Type

MODELS-Missiles & Rockets

Materials

Wood

Ferrous Alloy

Resin

Plaster

Copper Alloy

Paint

Dimensions

3-D: 74.9 × 32.7 × 19.1cm (29 1/2 × 12 7/8 × 7 1/2 in.)

Country of Origin

United States of America

See more items in

National Air and Space Museum Collection

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Metadata Usage

Not determined

Link to Original Record

http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv9dcbe0e63-ab01-40fc-bcb0-afa9310258dc

Record ID

nasm_A19762055000