Powder Horn
ClassificationsArms and Armor-powder containers
Date19th Century
Made AtTibet Autonomous Region, China, Asia
MediumHorn, silver, turquoise and coral
Dimensions10 3/8 × 3 × 2 3/8 in. (26.4 × 7.6 × 6 cm)
Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih
Object number2021.8.69a,b
DescriptionThis is the horn of either a yak or sheep which has been decorated for use in carrying gunpowder. Guns were first introduced to Tibet from its neighboring countries in the 16th century and continued to become more and more prevalent over the centuries. The flintlock musket used there changed little until the 19th century, but was increasingly integrated into Tibetan military practices, in hunting, and for sport. Horseback shooting of targets at a gallop became a requirement of Tibetan soldiers, and commonly the basis of competitions at festivals. This style of powder horn was also used for carrying snuff or poison. It appears to hail from eastern Tibet.On View
Not on viewCollections
1754-1763
19th to 20th Century
19th to 20th Century
19th to 20th Century
