Reproduction 18th-Century Engraved Map Horn
Several years ago, I had the unimaginable privilege of holding in my own grubby hands the original horn upon which this one is based. I felt at the time like a dog who had just learned the mailman delivers bacon!
The original horn, made by an unnamed fella in the early to mid 18th century (that we now refer to as "The Master Carver"), is truly a museum piece that illustrates, indeed, a plethora of North American history. It's a map horn that shows a complex network of British and French forts and their proximity to now-familiar cities, starting at the horn's engrailing with "Lac Superiour," spiraling around its body through the Great Lakes region past the Falls at Niagara, and ending at the base plug with the Isle De Orleans on the St. Lawrence River.
The owner of this horn was truly a gracious man. I asked him if I could take pictures of his prized possession, explaining my intentions of making a copy. With a wave of his hand, he gave me permission to do as I pleased--with the understanding, of course, that my pleasure had limits. He also stipulated that I had to keep the location of this treasure under wraps--which I have. So please don't ask.
I tried to do that horn justice about a year after that little photo session. I soon surrendered all my scratching tools to the armies I was drawing. It wasn't until early this year that I cleared about a month off my schedule and tried again.
Now some may balk at the price I have set on this horn, but the only one I'll apologize to is the Master Carver himself. Truly, my effort was done out of love for that original. But it would be nice that my time would be worth at least a sandwich and a little dignity.
Not that it matters, but this horn measures 11" across and 13.5" along the curve. Its black walnut base plug is 2.375" in diameter. The map itself that spirals 'round the horn has a linear measurement of roughly 69" (that's approximately 175 cm for our neighbors to the north).
Caring for your powder horn.
Horn items are susceptible to moth and beetle damage. The best thing you can do to avoid this damage is simply to fill it with black powder and use it. If you plan to store your horn, you might be tempted to put it in a box and tuck it away on the top shelf next to the extra towels in the second bedroom where it's good and dry. Giving in to this temptation, may not be a sin, but it's pretty close. You'll be storing up your treasure where moth doth corrupt. You see, worms prefer to dine in the darkness. Instead, when you ain't using it, hang it up on display and let it shine for everyone to see. But be forewarned: they will be bound to ask, "where did you get that powder horn?" And you can say, "from K. Carter, hornsmith, at KC-Hornworks.com."
One last thing: It's always kinda nice to give your powder horn a name. It's just one more way of showing your horn that you really do care.
Shipping Blurb
Prices include free shipping to anywhere in the 48 contiguous States. Additional charges may apply for shipments to Alaska and Hawaii. Please contact me regarding international orders.
