Heart Shaped Early Ottoman / Turkish Powder Flask

From the large variety of Ottoman powder flask, this one is quite scarce form. Also known as “Heart Shaped Flask”. A similar flask from the military Museum in Istanbul is dated to the 17 C (See Below).

The flask is made of finely carved wood covered with cut brass foil nailed with small brass nails. The back side is carved with what may be Arabic lettering with a possible date 1291 (1874 in the Gregorian calendar). Wood plug. Larger size than usual: 4 1/2 X 13 inches. Good condition to age. Losses to the brass foil. Rare form.

See also: The booklet of “Askeri Muze” – Military Museum Collection, Istanbul. Page 156