LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2007 Collection of Western History #680  / 

74366

Uniquely Rare Indian-Decorated Powder Horn

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Cultures & Ethnicities Start Price:1,125.00 USD Estimated At:4,500.00 - 8,500.00 USD
Uniquely Rare Indian-Decorated Powder Horn
<B>UNIQUELY RARE AND IMPORTANT INDIAN-DECORATED POWDER HORN. Circa 1830-60</B></I> - Extremely rare and important, this example of American Indian art virtually never appears on weapon related objects. The surface of the horn is virtually filled with scenes incised with a sharp point, by one who was clearly practiced and artistic. It is also obvious that there is no doubt whatsoever that these scenes and figures were drawn by a Native American artist. The technique is uniquely theirs. The horn runs from beige to brown black. The patina is untouched. The main vignettes include: (1) A village of 5 teepees, 3 seated Indians, 1 reclining, a bow & arrow, and lance and shield. Grass and foliage is indicated; (2) A mounted warrior chasing a buffalo toward another Indian with drawn bow; (3) A camp scene with pot suspended over a fire flanked by 4 Indians; (4) An Indian wearing a full animal skin, and carrying a bow/arrows, sneaking up on two buffalo; (5) An Indian with a gun seated in a blind, as a deer or elk approaches (large antlers); (6) A wonderful sequence of a large bear stalking an Indian holding a tomahawk, stalking a white man with a gun, stalking a bird; (7) A bear at full run chasing an Indian with gun also running, and (8) An Indian paddling a canoe. Most figures have feathers in their hair and some wear fringed leggings. Each figure drawn with the fewest possible lines, yet the impression is superb. Some due to the thinness of lines against the dark horn are not easily seen, unless in good light. None are worn off. Under a loupe, the detail is marvelous, and pure Native expression. The wood plug was put in with a fringed shim of leather and some thin leather laces, all intact. Fringe is mostly worn off. Big end had an iron eye for the sling, now gone. Small end shows this was meant for large bore musket or trade gun. One of the most outstanding objects of its kind. Museum quality. Horn measures prox. 16" long, along the curve. The large plug end is 3 W across the oval. A seriously important, unquestionably authentic, unique example of weapons related American Indian art. <BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Miscellaneous Collectibles, Larg (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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