Sri Lankan Silver Money Clip

This very unusual item is a clip, used to hold bank notes together (it could also be used to hold together other sheets of paper).

It is in crest form and made of silver that has been chased in relief on the upper side with vegetal and floral scrolling work that is very typical of the styles used by silversmiths in the Kandy region of Sri Lanka in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The underside is engraved with floral and foliate scrolls. Again, this work is typical of Kandyan silversmiths and was usually reserved for the underside of silver boxes.

This is the only Sri Lankan silver money clip that we have ever seen. It is in fine condition. There are no maker’s or other marks.