The falconet was a light cannon developed in the late 15th century that fired a smaller shot than the similar falcon.
During the Middle Ages guns were decorated with engravings of animals, such as reptiles, birds or mythical beasts depending on their size.
The falconet fired small yet lethal shot of similar weight and size to a bird of prey, and so was decorated with a falcon.
[7] Though developed for use on land, the falconet gained naval prominence during the 17th century for the defense of light vessels; for example, on small boats for boarding maneuvers.
The Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon displays a breech loading Field Falcon dating to the 14th century.