Ferreira Antiques

Description

Tinder pouch - Tibetan: Mechag or Chuckmuck. Tinder and pieces of flint or quartz were traditionally held inside the pouch and a steel striker is attached to the bottom. Being worn on a belt or strap meant that it was always at hand and a fire could be started quickly. It was, therefore, an essential tool for a travelling nomad.

This great example is made from leather with a brass suspension hoop, thin strips of steel binding and ornate pierced and decorated little bronze plates to the front. This lovely pouch's steel is also naively decorated and has been worn away on one side due to the many years of use.