Gun Powder Horn
Batak, Toba, Sumatra, Indonesia
19th Century
Previous Collection: Irwin Hersey, NYC

The Batak adopted firearms quickly after Westerners introduced them. This is a fine and rare example of a gun powder holder. The posture is strong and graceful with a delicate curvature of the back. The artist brilliantly contrasts the figure's statuesque naturalism with a stylized serpent-like creature morphing from the back of the conical head. The sharp jutting convention of the nose, chin and clavicle are softened by years of handling. The patina shows extensive wear which illuminates the depth and beauty of the buffalo horn's surface. In excellent condition.

This horn stands 5.25" tall.
IN 7-8-13 / SOLD