Tibetan Flint Striker

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 beautifully decorated with low relief metalwork, cast in a pattern of trailing vines and delicate flowers. The flap is studded with large beads of turquoise and red coral, framed by gold-plated chrysanthemum petals. A leather strap hangs from each end, both well worn from years of use. Elevated by a custom steel mount, this elegant striker lives on as a sculptural object with storied history.