33
Scrimshaw Powder Horn
Estimate:
CA$1,000 - CA$1,500
Sold
CA$1,500
Live Auction
Select Canadiana Furniture, Folk Art, Textiles, and Pottery
Size
Outside curve: 24". Inside curve: 19". Largest diameter at butt: 3.5".
Category
Description
A carved and incised powder horn made for James Reid in 1826 documenting his time stationed in Jamaica with the 91st Regiment of Foot. The Scottish Highland regiment set sail for Jamaica in 1821. Carved in relief with a nameplate panel as well as rings on the neck for the carrying strap, the horn also features a square masted sailing ship with a prominent female figurehead and a man and woman flanking a palm tree -- note the man is wearing a crown. The panel bears the owner's name within a laurel wreath and is surmounted by the British Royal Arms while the underside is engraved with the maker's name "Peter McCowan, Crieff NB 8th day of July (sic) 1826". It is likely that James Reid was a private in the regiment's Grenadier Company, signified by the flaming grenade incised above his name. Part of the regiment returned home in 1826 and it is likely the horn was carved by Peter McCowan either on board ship or upon James Reid's return to commemorate his time in Jamaica. Carved by Peter McCowan dated 1826.
Condition
Excellent condition with original cord carrying strap. Minor flaking at the butt edge.