Tibetan Flint Striker with Malachite Clasp

In 19th-century Tibet, many men carried a fire striker to help ensure survival in the often-harsh climate of the Tibetan Plateau. Known as mechag, such strikers would hang from one's belt and doubled as a small pouch for flint and tinder. The finest strikers were finished with precious metals and decorated with repoussé and inlaid stones.

This leather flint pouch is decorated with silver plated metalwork of scrollwork design around a central carnelian agate bead. A later example of a traditional mechag, the pouch is fitted with a steel strike plate and the leather flap still bends easily to open. The mechag hangs from a simple leather strap, counterbalanced by a large malachite disc with a silver-wrapped turquoise bead. Elevated by a custom steel mount, this Tibetan flint striker lives on as a sculptural object with storied history.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.

Additional Dimensions:
Flint Striker: 3.75"W x 1"D x 10.5"H
Mount Plate: 3"W x 2"D