Central Asia, Tibet, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A gathering of 3 decorative leather straps and a belt pouch decorated with iron and gilt silver appliques! The pouch is for holding flint, a fire-starting kit known as a chuckmuck - the curved underside of the bag has a steel blade for striking flint. Atop the flap closure is an ornate suspension ring, which could attach the chuckmuck to a belt, or strap- like the two included here. These straps are both comprised of thick leather bands folded into a loop, the terminal tips covered with iron and gilt silver fittings. The appliques on the chuckmuck and straps are both open work and repousse scrolling dragons, phoenix, and other mythical creatures. Belt straps and chuckmuck were not only worn as functional accessories but were also considered ceremonial jewelry among ethnic Tibetans. Size (one strap): 7.25" L x 3" W (18.4 cm x 7.6 cm); 7.5" H (19 cm) on included custom stand; silver quality: 59.2%; gilt quality: 36.5% (equivalent to 8K+)

Provenance: ex-John B. Kendrick II collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired from Chidori Asian Antiques, Seattle, Washington, USA, April 1996; John B. Kendrick II was that son of John B. Kendrick, Wyoming governor and US senator

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#172414

Pouch flap is stiff and does not open fully. Leather is cracking and stiff, black patina and areas of white mildew. We recommend cleaning and only lightly handling this piece. Dark patina and toning to silver areas, and russet and green patina on iron.