Powder Horn by Pointed Tree Carver

 

Photography by Jan Riser.

Morphy Auction: ENGRAVED MID 18TH CENTURY POWDER HORN BY THE "POINTED TREE" CARVER

 

The nickname "The Pointed Tree Carver" was assigned to this engraver long ago by a collector. This name derived from his engraved pointed or paintbrush shaped trees. Unfortunately, the real name off the carver is currently unknown. The tapered horn body measures about 10" across the bow. There is a small spout section with vase turning. There is a flange for strap attachment at the butt end. The horn features a massive and detailed British Coat of Arms. There are 11 engraved small pointed trees and 1 large tree, with a hunter shooting from behind it at 3 deer, 2 of which are stags. There is also a vacant rectangular identification cartouche surrounded by floral designs. Towards the bottom, there is a large building that appears to be an inn. 

CONDITION: Pleasing honey patina overall with some areas darker and some light wear and scattered marks. Wooden plug is absent. A very nice professionally engraved French and Indian War period powder horn. DMG

Lot #: 1049

Final Bid: $2,706.00

Minimum Bid: $2,000.

Estimate: $4,000 - $8,000

# of Bids: 3

More information found here.

Morphy Auction

December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria

Morphy auctions 5.27.2020: RARE "PITSBOURG" ENGRAVED MAP POWDER HORN WITH BRITISH CREST, ATTRIBUTED TO THE POINTED TREE CARVER

This horn was on display in Fort Pitt's exhibit "From Maps to Mermaids: Carved Powder Horns in Early America" between July 1 and December 31, 2018. This is one of only three known Fort Pitt horns by the noted artist known as the "Pointed Tree Carver". Walter stated "this professionally engraved horn depicts that indomitable English stronghold, Fort Pitt, here labeled 'PITSBOURG' in a banner, at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers where they form the great Ohio, which is also depicted and labelled "OHIO / RIVER". Also shown is the British Great Seal, and a hunter shooting at a grazing buck. Undated, but of the 1760's. The horn has a short extended lobe with one hole for a carrying strap and a modest vase shaped spout. It is also fitted with a flat, wooden plug. Overall, this curved horn measures 14 -1/2 " overall. For another similar example, see plate 83 of John DuMont's book "American Engraved Powder Horns". 

CONDITION: Horn retains a dark undisturbed patina. The back side shows heavy carry wear and is worn smooth. Some chipping to relief rings below spout. Pressure fitted plug is loose and shows some chipping. A very rare French and Indian War Pennsylvania horn with a nice untouched surface.

Minimum Bid: $7,500.00

Current Bid: $7,500.00

Estimate: $15,000 - $25,000

Number Bids: 1

Copy and photos from Morphy Auctions here.

Morphy Auctions 5.27.2020: RARE FORT PITT POWDER HORN ATTRIBUTED TO POINTED TREE CARVER

This is one of only three known Fort Pitt horns by the noted artist known as the "Pointed Tree Carver". Walter stated "this professionally engraved horn depicts that indomitable English stronghold, Fort Pitt, here labeled 'PITSBOURG' in a banner, at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers where they form the great Ohio. Also shown is the British Great Seal, a blank cartouche for an owners name, a hunter and his hounds chasing a deer and a hare. Undated, but of the 1760's. There is an old indecipherable paper label covering the plug. The horn has a short extended lobe with two holes for a carrying strap and a modest vase shaped spout. It is also fitted with a flat, wooden plug. The plug is secured with three wooden pins. Overall, this horn measures 10 " overall. This horn is pictured on plate 83 of John DuMont's book "American Engraved Powder Horns". 

CONDITION: Very Good. Minor 1/4 inch hairline crack at plug. 

PROVENANCE: Ex. Walter O'Connor and John S. DuMont Collections.

Minimum Bid: $10,000.00

Current Bid: $10,000.00

Estimate: $20,000.00

Number of Bids: 1

May 27, 2020 Founders & Patriots Auction

Absentee portion of this auction is open for bidding

Copy and photos from Morphy Auctions here.