Tinder Pouch (Icag) with Silver Mounts and Floral Nephrite Plaque

This beautiful tinder pouch ensemble is special because of the presence of the original woven silver chain and attached floral plaque which has been carved from a translucent, nephrite-like material.

The pouch is of leather with a steel striker and decorated chased silver mounts. The silver decoration is to both sides of the pouch.

The top of the pouch has a prominent, engraved silver loop to which the woven silver chain is attached.

The floral stone plaque is decorated on one side with petals. It is plain on the reverse. A small floral silver plaque is attached to its centre.

According to Borel (1994, p. 170), Himalayan men would wear an icag on their belts as a sign of prestige. It contained a flint and some tinder to start a fire. The flint was for striking against the iron striker.