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Antique silver-toned, horn-shaped metal vessel shown from a top-down angle with its hinged lid open, revealing a heavily patinated interior with hints of verdigris oxidation. - Photo 1
The Item

This exceptional antique vessel is a hand-crafted work of art, likely originating from South or Southeast Asia as a traditional chunam (lime paste) container or portable snuff flask. Formed in a curved, organic horn-like shape, the container is fashioned from a copper-rich alloy—evidenced by the rich green verdigris blooming on the interior—and finished with an exterior layer of silver plating. The exterior displays dense ribbed patterns along the body, intricate floral chased work along the neck, and is fitted with robust cast-metal hinges and hanging loops. The base features three small hand-soldered feet, allowing this curious piece to rest stably on a flat surface.

The level of artistry reflects traditional metalworking methods of the early twentieth century, where metalsmiths painstakingly joined, cast, and engraved each element by hand. Its heavily patinated surface tells a story of decades of handling, showcasing a beautiful interplay of dark oxidized recesses and bright silver highlights. Whether displayed as an intriguing conversation piece, added to a collection of historic tobacciana and snuff containers, or appreciated for its ethnographic metalwork, this flask brings an air of historic mystique to any setting.

This piece measures approximately 4.5 inches in height, 6 inches in width, and weighs 0.75 pounds.

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