Central Asia, Tibet, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A pair of stunning leather tinder pouches adorned with turquoise, red copal, brass, and high quality 84% to 89% silver appliques. Both have a flap closure and hook - the inner pockets are narrow, designed to hold a small amount of flint. The pouch without a strap handle is equipped with a steel striking blade along the bottom and a red copal ornament set in the center of the brass appliques. The larger pouch's leather is dyed red and green, then outfitted with lovely turquoise stone and red copal within repousse and openwork plaques. These tinder pouches (also called firestarter pouches or "chuckmucks") were not only portable fire-lighting kits, but also functioned as ceremonial jewelry among ethnic Tibetans. Size (pouch w/ blade): 5.5" L x 2.5" W (14 cm x 6.4 cm); 11.75" H (29.8 cm) on included custom stand; silvery quality: 84% to 89%

Provenance: ex-John B. Kendrick II collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired 1965 to 1990; John B. Kendrick II was that son of John B. Kendrick, Wyoming governor and US senator

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#172396

Pouch flaps are stiff and do not open easily. Cracking to leather and discoloration and abrasions on red bead. Patina and toning on brass and silver. Indentations to brass and silver fittings and perforations. Larger pouch contains assorted plastic and brass buttons and a coin.