Burns

Snuff mull of Dumfries Burns Club

Period:

19th Century

Description:

This elaborate snuff mull of cow horn was presented to Dumfries Burns Club in 1823 by "A Much Esteemed Member".  It was made by David Gray, a renowned local silversmith and carries his mark. Dumfries Burns Club was founded in 1819.

 

The lid of the snuff mull is engraved, "Presented To the BURNS CLUB of Dumfries BY A much esteemed member ON The Birthday of the Poet 1823".  It is still one of the most valued relics of the club.

 

This large snuff mull is made from a single cow horn and its capacity would allow it to be used by a group of people on social occasions.  There is a silver thistle motif on its side.

Materials/Media:

horn, cow horn, metal, silver, stone

Dimensions:

length 340mm, diameter 65mm

Source:

Robert Burns House, Dumfries

Accession number:

DUMFM:0198.266

Digital Number:

BHBN030n

Creation Date:

c January 1823

Copyright:

Dumfries Burns Club