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Surya Rutten

Rare Collection of 5 Tibetan 'Mechag' Fire Starters & Leather Pouches – Tibet/Himalayas – Early 20th Century

Up for auction is a fascinating and historically rich collection of five authentic Tibetan Mechags (traditional fire starters) and ceremonial pouches. These objects are not only functional tools from a bygone era but also exquisite examples of Himalayan craftsmanship.

Collection Highlights:
Craftsmanship: The pouches are made of thick, robust leather and adorned with detailed metalwork (likely white metal or silver alloy).

Symbolism & Decoration: Several pieces are inlaid with natural coral and turquoise, stones that represent protection and good fortune in Tibetan culture.

Intricate Metalwork: Note the refined repoussé techniques featuring dragon and floral motifs. One particular piece displays a beautifully detailed dragon in high relief.

Authentic Condition: The interiors of the pouches show authentic wear and age. The steel striking plates at the base of the pouches are still clearly present.

Historical Context:
A Mechag was traditionally worn on the belt by nomads and horsemen alike. By striking a piece of flint against the steel bottom, sparks were created to start a fire. The more elaborate the decoration, the higher the social status of the owner.


The set is in good, collectible condition with a beautiful patina consistent with its age (early 20th century). Signs of use on the leather and metal confirm the authenticity of these objects. Please refer to the detailed photos for a full impression of the condition and the stunning craftsmanship.

Materials: Leather, steel, white metal/silver, coral, turquoise.
Period: Late 19th / Early 20th Century.
Weight: 560gr (all 5)

Good condition - 8 cm

'Mechag' Fire Starters - Leather, Iron (cast), Silver - Tibet - 20th century

Chinese Art

Reserve price

No reserve price

Closing date

Thursday

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tomorrow

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The Netherlands

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United States

Size

S (10–40 cm)

XS (under 10 cm)

M (40–80 cm)

L (over 80 cm)

Dimensions

Height

Width

Depth

Object

Asian art and objects

Vase

Asian sculptures statues carvings and figurines

Statue

Plate

Bowl

Asian ceramics glass and metalwork

Figure

Sculpture

Teapot

Incense burner

Dish

Snuff bottle

Seal

Painting

Platter

Buddhistic objects

Censer

Saucer

Cup and saucer

Baluster vase

Asian furniture and folding screens

Singing bowl

Figurine

Country of origin

China

Asia

Nepal

Tibet

Unknown

Material

Porcelain

Bronze

Wood

Ceramic

Earthenware

Metal

Stone

Brass

Copper

Paper

Pottery

Silver

Agate

Bamboo

Bone

Clay

Enamel

Marble

Glass

Stoneware

Lacquer

Alloy

Gold plated

Wood (Elm)

Gold leaf

Condition

Good condition

Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes

Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear

Good condition - used with small signs of ageing

Excellent condition

Fair condition

Fair condition -  heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing

As new - unused

Needs restoration

Good

Very good

Very poor - showing significant decay, loss of original texture or solidity of the material

Poor - heavily used with major cracks, damages or major parts missing

Extras

No extra's

Period

Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

1850-1900

20th century

1700-1750

1800-1850

1750-1800

Kangxi (1662-1722)

1650-1700

1980-1990

Qianlong (1736-1795)

1910-1920

Early 20th century

Meiji period (1868-1912)

1970-1980

1900-1910

1920-1930

1950-1960

1990-2000

Late 20th century

Guangxu (1875-1908)

1600-1650

Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

Qing dynasty (Manchu China) (1692-1911)

Yongzheng (1723-1735)

1940-1950

Subject

Portrait

Famous landmarks

Asian art

Landscape

Style

Antique

Classical

Contemporary

Antique inspired

Rustic

Technique

Mixed technique

Mixed media

Watercolour painting

Gouache

Signature

Original

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Signed

Hand signed

In the style of

Plate signed

Edition

Limited edition

1st Edition

Language

English

German

Colour

Blue

White

Brown

Green

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Turquoise

Multicolour

Black

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Chinese Art

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'Mechag' Fire Starters - Leather, Iron (cast), Silver - Tibet - 20th century

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