Scottish Georgian Horn Snuff Mull

Made from hollow rams horn and white metal (most likely silver) this fine example is typically decorated with an impressive polished mountain gemstone and mounted with an intricate metal hinged mount. It is believed that many snuff mulls were made by "coopers" as they were well skilled in steaming the horn, metal working and forming hinges. The Scots word "mull" comes from the English word "mill". Such snuff mulls are very difficult to date but in this instance the Latin inscription "Donum Tratris 1815" indicates the Mull was gifted to one James Alexander Fowlis at that time. Two hundred years of handling has resulted in a wonderful natural patina to this highly collectable object.