MAHFAZA *** Old Yemen Silver belt purse (sanduq) with filigree & granulation

Description

This fabulous old/antique Vintage filigree "Mahfaza" purse (I have also seen them called "Sanduq") from Yemen. It was originally attached to the dagger belt on a Yemeni man, holding small coins or personal items.
Handmade by Yemen silversmiths, this purse is made of an unknown silver alloy containing less than 800 of 100 parts silver (not uncommon in Yemen especially for pieces that were used daily and had to be sturdy), but has a fabulous patina from long decades of wear. Apart from the back it is decorated all over, with only the small bits of filigree /granulation missing. Signs of wear in keeping with age. The back is not completely even and shows some scratches.
The lid of the purse is hinged and can be opened by taking out the pin. The piece is in very good condition; excellent workmanship!
The plain back sports a loop for fastening to the belt. These "loops" were actually often broken off or removed by dealers to sell the purse as a pendant. This Mahfaza is in its original state, fully intact and functional. It can be worn on a narrow leather belt.
A highly unusual piece of jewelry that is both useful and highly decorative and will certainly arouse attention.