Exceptional Batak Carved Powder Horn (Salempang)

This is the finest Batak powder horn or salempang that we have seen, published or otherwise. It is carved entirely from buffalo kerabau horn, most probably in the Lake Toba region of north Sumatra. It is surmounted by a small, domed brass cap. Gun powder was poured into one end – the large end – and then carefully measured out from the thinner end, which is covered with a removeable plug.

The central part of the powder horn comprises a stylised lion or singa element. A cord or chain would have been attached to this and then to the user’s belt. The thinner end can be interpreted as a stylised hornbill bird’s head and casque (baba ni onggang). The entire body of the flask has been carved beautifully with geometric swirls in keeping with the hornbill aspect. The wider end, fixed with a removable cover, is beautifully carved with fern-like motifs, and with a small face carved in relief on the upper section.

Firearms were introduced by Europeans to Sumatra in the 19th century and they quickly found great favour with the Bataks, who decorated locally produced firearms and related paraphernalia with rich decoration in the manner of their traditional weapons. Gunpowder horns were used to hold gunpowder for muzzle loaders.

The example here is in fine condition and with excellent patina.