The Pusey Horn thumbnail 1
The Pusey Horn thumbnail 2
+1
images
On display
Image of Gallery in South Kensington

This object consists of 2 parts, some of which may be located elsewhere.

The Pusey Horn

Horn and Case
ca. early 15th century (made)
Artist/Maker
Unknown
Place of origin
Great Britain (made)

Drinking horns had been used since Anglo-Saxon times and were often prized as heirlooms and an indication of ancient lineage. This horn takes its name from the manor of Pusey in Berkshire. William Pusey had warned King Canute (died 1035) of an impending attack and was given the manor in gratitude.

Object details

Object type
Horn and case
Parts
This object consists of 2 parts.

  • Horn
  • Case (Pusey Horn)
TitleThe Pusey Horn (popular title)
Brief description
The Pusey Horn, drinking horn, ox horn mounted in silver gilt, with case, about 1400-1450
Credit line
Given by Mrs Lucy Violet Bouverie-Pusey, widow of Philip Bouverie-Pusey, in memory of her husband
Object history
Gift - Mrs L V Bouverie-Pusey
Acquisition RF: 38 / 5615

V&A Exhibition RF.2003/51
Summary
Drinking horns had been used since Anglo-Saxon times and were often prized as heirlooms and an indication of ancient lineage. This horn takes its name from the manor of Pusey in Berkshire. William Pusey had warned King Canute (died 1035) of an impending attack and was given the manor in gratitude.
Bibliographic references
  • John Cherry, 'Symbolism and Survival: Medieval Horns of Tenure', Antiquaries Journal 69 (1989): 111-18. Illustrations, figs. a and b, pl. XX, between pp. 112 and 113.
  • Richard Marks and Paul Williamson, eds., Gothic: Art for England, 1400-1547 (London: V&A Publications, 2003), no. 182, p. 315. Illustration (Photograph), pp. 314-15.
  • Pegge, 'Of the Horn, as a Charter or Instrument of Conveyance. Some Observations on Mr Samuel Foxlowe's Horn; as Likewise on the Nature and Kinds of these Horns in General', Archaeologia 3 (1786): 1-29. Illustration (Engraving), pl. II, opp. p. 13.
  • Marks, R & Williamson, P. (Eds.), Gothic. Art for England 1400-1547, London, V&A, 2003
Collection
Metalwork Collection
Accession number
M.220&A-1938

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Record createdOctober 6, 2003
Record URL
https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O84673/the-pusey-horn-horn-and-case-unknown/
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