June 12-13, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/13/2019
This powder horn is complete with its original receipt on "Guthman Americana" letterhead, signed by Bill Guthman himself; it is dated June of 2000 when it sold for $15,000. Guthman used this powder horn in his ads for Guthman Americana, one of which is present with the horn. the horn is also featured in the Pennsylvania Antique Gun Collector's Association publication, "The Monthly Bugle" No. 380-382 from summer of 2001 in an article by Roy Garizio. Also included in a collection of 16 stereoview cards showing the ruins of Fort Ticonderoga shot in the 1870's; most are by Stoddard, American Scenery, E. & H.T. Anthony, Gates, and Styles. The powder horn itself was cut down during the period of use and now measures approximately 11" overall, including its convex wooden plug retained by wood pins. The faceted spout section was also shortened, probably at the time the horn was also cut down. This horn, according to Guthman, was engraved by the "Memento Mori" engraver (see "Drums A'Beating" by William H. Guthman). The horn was made for Benjamin Stillwill, who served in the Connecticut Regiments in 1755, 1758, and 1759 as a private; he then served as a corporal in 1760, and a sergeant in 1764. Ticonderoga powder horns by known engravers are extremely rare. The main body of the horn features an engraved panel inscribed "...JAMIN STILLWILL / ...CONDEROGA : OCT 31 1759". The horn is also decorated with attractive folky floral motifs, as well as a bird's eye depiction of Fort Ticonderoga and the buildings within. Also included is the bulletin of the Fort Ticonderoga Museum Vol. XVI, No. 2 from 1999 which includes an article on Fort Ticonderoga powder horns. CONDITION: Horn retains a pleasing honey patina with some wear to engraving from carrying. Otherwise, very good. Spout with some minor losses during period of use. This is a scarce French and Indian War powder horn from an important and noted collection.