Unknown item - snaffle bit?

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Kmaddock

I think it goes around the neck

A reason for the key to rotate could be you hang something on the "Key" and at different times you want to display different sides of the object.

Ie during a mass you show an image of Birth at start and then rotate to an image of Death at the end.

I have no idea by the way just throwing things out but I think it is to fragile for equine work or constraint.


Nice item though.

Thank you Ken, interesting suggestion. I just received a mail from a friend who showed it to an antique dealer, he says that it could be a Jewish chain worn by a Rabbi or from Eastern Christians, he seems to be sure that it is a religious necklace.

Regards,
Detlef

[Ian]

Detlef,

To me this looks like what is often referred to as a "Chain of Office" or a "Livery Collar," such as worn by government official or a Mayor of a city. There would be a medallion of some sort hanging from the central "key." These chains are quite long, hanging around the neck, resting on the shoulders and across the chest.

If you google "Chain of Office" you will see some very lavish examples in gold, etc. However, your example might be for a city councilor or a mayor is a small burg.

Cheers,

Ian


P.S. Are you sure it's brass and not gold?

[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Ian

Detlef,

To me this looks like what is often referred to as a "Chain of Office" or a "Livery Collar," such as worn by government official or a Mayor of a city. There would be a medallion of some sort hanging from the central "key." These chains are quite long, hanging around the neck, resting on the shoulders and across the chest.

If you google "Chain of Office" you will see some very lavish examples in gold, etc. However, your example might be for a city councilor or a mayor is a small burg.

P.S. Are you sure it's brass and not gold?

Hi Ian,

Sorry for my late reply, I've overseen your reply. It seems that you have solved the mystery. Thank you very much! I have this necklace already long and never have known what it is, so I am very thankful!

Regards,
Detlef

PS: I am nearly sure that it isn't gold!