Powder Horn, 1775-1783
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Lightweight, inexpensive, waterproof, and plentiful, hollowed animal horn was ideal for carrying gunpowder. These functional tools of war also became canvasses for creative expression. Engraved powder horns survive as both documents of their owners' experiences and unique pieces of colonial American art. This example illustrates the beginnings of the Revolutionary War through places, people, and symbolic imagery.
Lightweight, inexpensive, waterproof, and plentiful, hollowed animal horn was ideal for carrying gunpowder. These functional tools of war also became canvasses for creative expression. Engraved powder horns survive as both documents of their owners' experiences and unique pieces of colonial American art. This example illustrates the beginnings of the Revolutionary War through places, people, and symbolic imagery.
Artifact
Powder horn
Date Made
1775-1783
Subject Date
1775-1783
Place of Creation
On Exhibit
at Henry Ford Museum in With Liberty & Justice for All
Object ID
62.47.3
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Horn (Animal material)
Wood (Plant material)
Leather
Dimensions
Length: 20.5 in
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