Nomad travel set consisting of a leather/fabric case, a bowl, a knife, and chopsticks. - Bone, metal, Brass, Leather - Uzbekistan - 19th century

Central Asia nomad travel set – Case, bowl, knife, and chopsticks.
This rare travel set, originating from Central Asia and likely dating to the second half of the 19th century, represents a typical food kit used by nomads during horseback movements. It consists of three original elements: a domed leather and woven fabric case, a turned metal bowl, and a traditional knife complete with two bone chopsticks. Despite the natural wear due to age and use, the set is an extraordinarily complete example and difficult to find, as these objects were used daily and therefore rarely survived.
The case features a semi-rigid structure, covered with panels of worked leather and hand-stitched textile inserts with sturdy threads. The lower part – originally closed with leather secured by peripheral laces – has been lost, as have two side flaps, but the main body still retains its dome shape, the original padding, and traditional stitches. The elongated tail, typical of some nomadic containers, served as reinforcement and as a handle for transport. The interior still allows for the stable housing of the metal bowl.
The bowl is made of a finely turned metallic alloy and finished with a slightly flared foot. The uniform patina indicates prolonged but respectful use, typical of personal objects carried during long journeys.
The traditional knife is one of the most remarkable elements: equipped with a blade in steel with a foliated profile, it features a sheath covered in leather, adorned with small gold inserts that testify to an object not only functional but also belonging to an owner of a certain rank. The handle of the knife and the two dining sticks are made of finely turned bone, with subtle engraved ring decorations. The sticks, stored inside the sheath, complete the travel kit for meal consumption in any condition.
Overall, this is a very rare example of 19th-century nomadic tools from Central Asia, complete with its key elements and characterized by authentic materials, consistent patina, and signs of use fully compatible with its original purpose. Despite the partial loss of the case's bottom and two side flaps, this ensemble retains a very high ethnographic and collectible value.
Dimensions:
Container for bowl, 33 x 18 x 11 cm (height).
Knife, 21 cm (complete)
bowl, 11 x 11 x 7 cm h.