October 30, 2019 The Collection of Steve & Marcy Hench
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2019
This unusual powder flask is accompanied by an article from the Pennsylvania Antique Gun Collector's Association publication "Monthly Bugle" from April 2010. The article, by Mike Carrick, shows several images of similar flasks and that six of these have come from an area in the seven miles surrounding Reading, Pennsylvania in Berks County. The powder flask measures approximately 5-1/4" in height excluding the brass spout and about 4-1/2" across in the widest spot. The flattened horn body appears to be ram's horn. There are iron rings mounted on each side for sling attachment and the front is decorated with Pennsylvania German style hex signs. The top and bottom have plain wooden plugs and the spout is of brass with iron fittings. The area of manufacture for this particular example, whether Berks County or elsewhere, is a mystery. CONDITION: Horn body retains a dark patina with some crazing from age and some areas of raised grain on the back of the horn. There is one minor area of insect damage on the back. Both wooden plugs are original, the top showing a minor area of loss and some cracks. Brass and iron show a heavy, dark patina. A copy of the discussed article is included, as well as a brief letter from Bob Speelman.