RARE ARTILLERY ENGRAVED "SORRAY COUN NORTH CAROLINA" POWDER HORN WITH CANNONS.

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/26/2018

This rare North Carolina artillery horn is inscribed: "JOHN SAYLER". "SORRAY COUN NORTH CAROLINA" Motifs engraved on this horn include a wonderfully detailed overhead view cannon and mortar. There is also a side view of a cannon, carriage and tools, and what appears to be a flintlock rifle and muskets. A drum, flag, and other images, which may include a liberty pole and cap are also engraved. The plug is bordered by what appears to be an engraved fort. There is a very nice border design around the horn, featuring two fans. This horn is fitted with a beautiful hardwood, domed and stepped plug, which terminates in an integral, wooden finial. There is an intricately carved band below the finial. This plug is secured with five wooden pins. The raised portion of this horn terminates in a fish mouth, from which the darker throat protrudes. There is a very nicely vase and ring turned spout tip. According to Jay Hopkins, in his book "Bone Tipped & Banded Horns : Vol. 1", page 58, this is a finely made, small priming or pocket horn with a modified fish mouth at the neck. The carving shows artillery ordinance including cannons, mortars and two field pieces. The details are extremely fine and appear almost architectural or patent grade. It also includes the name "John Sayler" and "Surrey County, North Carolina." The genealogical research on his man is ongoing, but there is one noted to be in a Virginia militia company who ended up in North Carolina. The horn appears to be of Virginia origin with the acorn finial and pinned horn tip. It could well have belonged to an artillery officer or cartographer and it could have been used as a priming or a pocket horn for a pistol. Condition: Good. There is minor carrying wear to the fish's mouth and side of the horn, which clouds and diminishes the carvings in that area. Approximately half of the turned spout tip is missing. Several chips and erosion to the overhanging lip of the butt plug are present, as well as a small chip to the finial. There are also assorted scratches and abrasions from use.