Primer

Unknown

18th century · Horn, ivory · Arms and Armor

A priming flask is used to hold and pour fine gun powder into the priming pan of a matchlock gun. They are produced from a range of materials, as seen here, including metal, horn, and ivory. Their decoration also varied and often showcased artistic ingenuity. This flask features the head of the makara, a crocodile-like creature of Hindu mythology, with a ram leaping from the creature’s mouth. The makara design could be a reflection of its use in hunting crocodile, a popular pastime for the royal courts of Rajasthan.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Horn, ivory

Culture

Indian, Rajasthan

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935