Primer, gunpowder horn

The entire surface of this 17th century Mughal ivory horn is decorated with detailed carving of animals and birds. A herd of antelopes is seen hunted by lionesses. An antelope head with long horns adorns the mouth of the primer which is fitted with a metallic clip for locking the primer. Small areas of black pigment define the eyes of the antelopes which lend expression of fear to the helpless animals. Horns were used to carry gun powder and were hung around the waist by soldiers. Such horns were popular during the Mughal period (15th-17th centuries).