May 27, 2020 Founders & Patriots
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/27/2020
This rare Fort Pitt powder horn is inscribed in script: "HWP" "Fort Pitt" "Castle Wm" "F__Chartres". The "HWP" is engraved in a crest surrounded by a panoply of arms. Several horn attributed to John Small are known with different monogrammed initials, some have been identified as to the probable owner's. Illustrated forts with legible names include "Fort Pitt" and "Castle Wm" in script. There is another fort flying a British flag that is probably "Fort Chartres". The "Allegheny" and "Monongahela" rivers are also pictured and named. There is a whimsical Indian, smoking what appears to be a pipe tomahawk, and carrying a bow and an edged weapon. He is surrounded by two small animals. Several crude buildings, which may be Indian, are shown along with a small watercraft along the Monongahela River. Horn is fitted with a domed, hardwood plug secured with bass tacks. There is a wavy, hatched border just below this plug. A large, 1 - 1/2" iron staple just below the plug. The spout is carved with four beautifully carved, graduated rings. This horn measures 15 inches overall. This horn is attributed to engraver John Small who is believed to have worked at Fort Pitt. Another similar Fort Pitt "AR" horn by the same hand is in this sale. CONDITION: Good, as described. There are two areas of what appears to be water damage on the back side, otherwise very good. PROVENANCE: Ex. Walter O'Connor Collection.