Inlaid Powder Horn

Unknown

18th century · Wood overlaid with horn, mother-of-pearl, and ivory; silver · Islamic Art

A powder horn, which typically was made of cow or buffalo horn, refers to any personal container that was used for gunpowder. This flask is made of wood, but shaped to resemble a nautilus shell. The floral decoration that makes up the body is inlaid with horn, mother of pearl, and ivory. The two silver hooks would have attached to a strap worn over the shoulder, allowing the user to easily access the gunpowder by lifting the lid off the top.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Wood overlaid with horn, mother-of-pearl, and ivory; silver

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Fletcher Fund, 1976