i have no idea

[marinedad]

anybody know what this thing is? it was 7" deep, all parts bronze? non magnetic, hinges to flip open. what language?

 

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[Bigcypresshunter]

Its some kind of antique clothing clasp. Yours is cool. Many of them have Asian themes. What does it say? Your first pic is out of focus, 2nd pic is perfect. The camera must have been angry on the first pic. http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/topic,214528.0.html

 

[Fast_Dave]

THANK YOU BIGCYPRESS!!!! I've been trying for years to find out what this thing was. I found mine in an 1880's logging camp and have never been able to find out anything about it. The guesse were evrything from a ladies purse closure to a hat band holder to a wooden box clasp. I even tried here quite a few years ago before things were quite so well organized. Thanks again!

 

[marinedad]

from top center going clockwise reads= +A cecar+arad+ I. yna.L. bir+
what language?

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

from top center going clockwise reads= +A cecar+arad+ I. yna.L. bir+
what language?

Thanks Ill try searching but it would also be helpful to have an in focus pic of the lettering in question.

 

[DirtDigler]

The images are religious in nature, probably Catholic. The ball with a cross atop it is seen in religious art thoughout the ages. The short staff is possibly an aspregillum, used to sprinkle holy water. The clergy member is wearing a hat often worn by Catholic clergy, in particular Cardinals. This clasp may have been used to clasp vestments, possibly a cape. That's all I have so far.

 

[DirtDigler]

After a little more research, the staff pictured is not an aspergillum, but a sceptre, denoting a high rank within the church. The orb and cross denote the power of Christ across the world. I would check Latin resources for the verbiage. It's probable that you'll find it's a Latin verse as it's the base language for the Catholic church.