Priming Flask (Primary Title)
powder primer (Object Name)
Unknown (Artist)
Firearms were introduced to India in the 14th century, forever changing the ways Indians fought and hunted. Flasks like this ornate example held the gunpowder used to “prime” a musket. Pressing the steel level along its top opens a hole at the end, through which a small amount of powder was dispensed into the musket’s flashpan or touchhole. Once lit, this priming powder detonated the main charge powder, firing the weapon’s projectile. The elaborate motifs depicting predators and their prey suit this flask’s use in armed combat or hunting.
Nasli and Alice Heeramaneck Collection, Gift of Paul Mellon
2002: "Worlds of Wonder and Desire: Indian Paintings from VMFA", VMFA, November 21, 2001 - February 24, 2002.
1989-1990: "The Romance of the Taj Mahal", Los Angeles County Museum of Art, December 17, 1989 - March 11, 1990; Toledo Museum of Art, April 28 - June 24, 1990; VMFA, August 23 - November 25, 1990; The Asia Society Gallery, NY, January 1- - March 17, 1991
1979-1980: "Patterns" Immobile exhibition, September 1979 - June, 1980
1989-1990: "The Romance of the Taj Mahal", Los Angeles County Museum of Art, December 17, 1989 - March 11, 1990; Toledo Museum of Art, April 28 - June 24, 1990; VMFA, August 23 - November 25, 1990; The Asia Society Gallery, NY, January 1- - March 17, 1991
1979-1980: "Patterns" Immobile exhibition, September 1979 - June, 1980
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
