French and Indian War Era Powder Horn by Barbara Smith
Engraved powder horns are not only functional for the modern black powder shooter but are justifiably considered works of art in their own right. This year’s CLF Live Fundraising Auction features a prime example of 18th century-inspired art by Barbara Smith.
Smith’s powder horn is loosely based on a French & Indian War period horn originally made in 1760. The surface of the horn features elaborates and well-executed scrimshaw designs including a soldier, a man and woman, a church, house, snakes, fish, and a variety of flying creatures and floral motifs.
The throat of the horn is engrailed, and chip carved with a single chip-carved ring and some paneling at the tip. The base plug is made of pine, stained with walnut stain and pinned with eight wooden pins. The spout plug is hand carved from cedar, also walnut stained, and is attached to the horn with a tether constructed from waxed linen. Smith utilized a mix of dyes and stains to create a rich patina and darken the scrimshaw. The horn comes with a colorful and eye-catching strap which was made from a repurposed coverlet remnant with brain-tanned leather ends and ties.
For more information on the work of Barbara Smith, contact: barbarasmith011960@gmail.com
Text by Joshua Shepherd
Photography by David Wright
