Powder Flask in the Form of a Tortoise by UNKNOWN GOLDSMITH, German

UNKNOWN GOLDSMITH, German

(active second half of 16th century in southern Germany)

	Powder Flask in the Form of a Tortoise 1550-1600 Shell of a Greek tortoise, silver setting, 6 x 15 x 8 cm Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna
The marksman had to carry on his person the powder necessary for the early hand firearms in a so-called powder flask or powder horn. For the present container, the entire shell of a Greek tortoise was used. the soft parts of the animal were exceptionally reconstructed in silver and applied to the armour in the appropriate positions.