Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

These are models of an ordinary arrow, an incendiary arrow, and an early Chinese rocket arrow of about 1,000 years ago. The models convey one theory as to how the Chinese may have originated the rocket. The Chinese may have experimented with incendiary mixtures attached to an ordinary arrow, then later added saltpeter (potassium nitrate) to make the incendiary stronger. They could have thus discovered gunpowder and its propelling, as well as explosive, properties.

The container was turned around compared to the forward facing incendiary arrow tube. The exhaust gases of the powder drove the arrow forward, becoming the first rocket. These models were donated to the Museum in 1976 by the George Marsden Design Company.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type MODELS-Missiles & Rockets Manufacturer George Marsden Design
 Dimensions Approximate: 43 3/4 × 3 1/4 × 1/2 in. (111.1 × 8.3 × 1.3cm)
 Materials Wood
Resin
Feathers
Copper Alloy
Paint
Varnish
Adhesive
Arrow shaft, wood; spear tip arrow holder at rear, painted wood; arrow feather at rear, bird feather.
 Inventory Number A19762057000 Credit Line Gift of George Marsden Design Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.