19th Century Effigy Black Powder Measure

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19th Century Effigy Black Powder Measure

About the Item

Effigy Black Powder Measure Region: Great Lakes/ Frontier, Attributed to Metis Dated: “1866” Materials: Elk antler with black coloration, Native tanned deer hid thong Dimensions: L. 4 3/4” Condition: Overall Excellent No restoration Comments: This deeply patinated and heavily worn black powder measure is incised with the initials “J.M.M.” In addition there are 2 arrows, a tomahawk, a dog head in profile, and the measure terminates in a long snouted fish with mouth, eyes and nostrils and a fish scale body with fine, incised fins on the underside. The effigy may be a carp, gar or pike or possibly a composite mythological figure. This effigy may be “J.M.M. ‘s clan totem or an important personal manitou. The Western style dog, the dating and the initials suggest a mixed race owner, a Metis. The measure itself has a structure very similar to an elk antler quirt (in diminutive form) from the Western Great Lakes/ Eastern Plains. The mouth of the measure is gracefully carved for its use as a powder spout. Great Lakes Indians, Voyageurs, Hunters and Trappers all favored black powder trade muskets long after superior fire arms were available. J.M.M. in 1866 may have been a Metis involved in a late phase of the fur trade. The graduated and fluted carving of the measure with remarkable details is an exceptional example of Western Great Lakes sculpture. Reference: Accouterments and Accouterments II, James R. Johnston, illustrate numerous measures regarded as the “elite of measures.” The present example is superior in artistry and historic importance to any of these referenced examples. The Kentucky Rifle Hunting Pouch, Madison Grant, ‘They were made of many kinds of material and ran the gamut from the plainest sort to some which were elaborate and had as much artistic merit as a well-engraved powder horn.”(p.190). See pp. 190-194 for examples and discussion. The measure is professionally mounted for display.

Dimensions:
Height: 0.75 in (1.91 cm)Width: 4.75 in (12.07 cm)Depth: 0.5 in (1.27 cm)
Style:
Folk Art (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Antler
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1860-1869
Date of Manufacture:
Circa 1866
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Santa Fe, NM
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU116023138932