1484

Lot 1484: 1858 Whaling Captain's Powder Horn

Currency:USD Category:Everything Else / Other Start Price:NA Estimated At:8,000.00 - 12,000.00 USD
Lot 1484: 1858 Whaling Captain's Powder Horn
<b>Americana</b><hr><b>Magnificent Ornately Engraved Presentation Powder Horn
To Whaler Captain Joseph Mayhew & Dated 1858</b>

<b>1858 dated, Whaling Captain Joseph Mayhew's, ornate presentation powder horn and accompanying collection, Choice Extremely Fine.</b>
Perhaps the most important and impressive single Whaling related item we have ever offered and most certainly of museum quality. The horn itself measures 24' in length. It is a very natural and original olive-brown in colorful blends. Adorning this presentation horn are many wonderful, highly beautiful, intricate carvings of Whaling ships and Whaling scenes, several whales, an anchor and mariner's compass along with other designs and various added decorations. Etched on one side is 'Joseph Mayhew Cpt.' over the word 'Whaler.' Below the legend is found a fantastic Heraldic eagle with shield, along with the date; "1858." The wider, wooden base has a carved heart-shaped bone plug and fabulous, colorful inlaid mother-of-pearl devices. Nipple end plug measures 3.25' long, the original inside threads quite worn. The most beautifully carved Whaling related horn we have ever seen, having impressive and exquisite period details. Also accompanied by three other associated pieces framed for display, providing added provenance. These include a signed letter from a John Rupell address to 'Capt. Joseph Mayhew' dated Dec. 21, 1852; an envelope for that letter, addressed to Capt. Joseph Mayhew and postmarked, 'Philadelphia, Pa., Dec. 25 / 5cts.,' and perhaps best of all, an Ambrotype image stated to be none other than that of Capt. Mayhew. An extraordinary collection worthy of the very finest quality Whaling-related display.