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

Object Information
  • 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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