Gun Powder Horn

Batak tribe,
Sumatra, Indonesia
19th Century
Previous Collection:
Irwin Hersey, NYC

These small powder horns known as "parpanggalahan" were used to store gun powder. The surface of this object is enveloped in curvilinear designs. The center is an abstract horned face from which the object is suspended ( see bronze attachment ); then flanking the face are 2 Singas which are very well executed. This object is a combination of mediums; wood for the stopper; horn for the container and bronze for the hook. The ancestor face on the horn's tip is quite strong. The patina is encrusted with a well worn surface from extensive handling.

This powder horn is 6" in length.
IN 5-12-13/ SOLD