Miniature meriam kecil

With hundreds of years of trade influence with China, India, and the Middle East coupled with local design preferences, there are many artistic models of Bornean meriam kecil.

Because cannon plays a large role in the traditional lives of the natives of Borneo, the intricate decorations of the barrel and the elaborate details of its designs and engravings give the impression that they also have spiritual and magical uses.

"Although one source said that pistols had not been present in the area until recently and that the miniatures were carried in a waist band or sash and used as hand guns, they would be particularly inconvenient in this application.

[4]: 95 In Indonesia during Portuguese and Dutch colonial times, miniature meriam kecil were used as currency for the spice trade.

[1] To fulfill local demand for these currency, miniature meriam kecil were cast in Portugal and Holland in conventional European cannon designs or inscribed with the VOC logo.