Domestic and Industrial Demand for Horn

By the 17th century, horn was used for a range of domestic wares used by working families such as combs, cutlery and drinking cups. Horn lanthorns or lanterns were in widespread demand given their translucency and fireproof qualities. The growth of spectacle wearing also led to a rising demand for horn frames. Horn also had industrial applications. Horn combs were used to dress or clean wool and flax by hand before it was spun. This was a skilled task which was not mechanised until the 19th century.