Inlaid Powder Horn

18th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 464

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Inlaid Powder Horn
Date: 18th century
Geography: Attributed to India, Kotah, Rajasthan
Medium: Wood overlaid with horn, mother-of-pearl, and ivory; silver
Dimensions: Gr. W. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm)
Classification: Arms and Armor
Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1976
Object Number: 1976.176.2
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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