Gunpowder Flask
Maker and role
James Dixon & Sons (estab. 1806, closed Post 1887), Manufacturer
Production date
Circa 1851-1879
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Object detail
Media/Materials
Bronze
Measurements
6 1/2" (16.5cm)
Description
Powder flasks were made in a variety of shapes as well as materials. This flask has what is known as a “bag” shape . Bag flasks were some of the earliest metal powder flasks but remained in production well into the 1800s. For example, this flask was made by the high-end Sheffield, England firm of James Dixon & Sons during the second half of the nineteenth century. Due to their narrow shape, bag form flasks were unable to hold a large amount of powder and were often sold specifically to be used with pistols. It is also perhaps because of their slim shape that the majority of bag-shaped flasks were undecorated.
Gunpowder was sold in bulk and gunpowder flasks were used to carry gunpowder when out in the field.
Gunpowder was sold in bulk and gunpowder flasks were used to carry gunpowder when out in the field.
Object number
59G14/G76-86
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