Old Turtle?

[Stickmarsh]

I need help to identify this old metal turtle. The turtle measures 6 ¼ inches long by 4 ½ inches wide with a flap on the back that opens. There are no identifying marks and it appears to be hand-made. I am thinking that it was possibly used as a small trap or a bank, although I really have no idea what it was designed for. The turtle was donated to a rehabilitation program and sold in their thrift shop. Any and all help will be appreciated.
Thanks, Stickmarsh

 

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[jeff of pa]

If you put something in it,
how easy is it to get back Out ?

is it Heavy or Light.

Could it be a Hide-A-Key ? / door Stop Hide-A-key

 

[Breezie]

Your turtle appears to be brass and was probably made in India around the 1960's. I'm thinking it is supposed to be a 'cricket box,' which were mainly used to hold potpourri or any type of dried flower peddles for room fragrance. Check to see if there is any 'burn' residue on the inside bottom, which could have been used for burning incense. Neat find, Breezie

 

[Silver Searcher]

Looking at the top I would say a Money Box :P

SS

 

[Stickmarsh]

jeff of pa – it only weighs ¾ of a pound, so I doubt that it could function as a doorstop.

Silver Searcher – it could have been used as a bank, although you can see inside through the wire mesh.

Breezie – It does not draw a magnet, so it could very well be brass. I tend to agree with you that it might have been “used to hold potpourri or any type of dried flower peddles for room fragrance.”

Thanks to all for sharing your thoughts and opinions. Stickmarsh