Brief Description:  The pot-de-fer (literally "pot of iron") was one of Europe’s first gunpowder artillery weapons. Originating in the early 14th century, it featured a distinctive, bulbous vase or bottle shape with a narrow neck. Instead of cannonballs, it fired large, finned arrows called garrots using black powder.

Key Characteristics and Mechanics:

Shape and Design: Resembling a large vase, this shape was specifically designed to handle the volatile, unpredictable pressures of early black powder. It was typically made of forged or cast iron, though some bronze versions existed.

Ammunition: The weapon fired a heavy arrow or bolt (made of ash or oak) equipped with brass or copper fletchings. The projectile's center or base was often wrapped in leather to ensure a tight seal and maximum propulsion inside the barrel.

Operation: Gunpowder was packed into the wider, bulbous chamber and a wooden arrow was inserted into the neck. The weapon was fired by thrusting a red-hot wire into a small touchhole to ignite the powder.