Antique “Sanduq” silver and coral container | Yemen

Antique “Sanduq” silver container, horseshoe-shaped, finely decorated with granulation and embellished with three antique gemstones set at the center: a large red coral, a pink coral, and a carnelian.

The sides and the upper part are enriched with an elegant silver wire and granulation details.

This type of ornamental “pouch” was worn by men, suspended from the belt, and was used to hold small sheets bearing Qur’anic verses.
The three loops on the back allowed it to be attached to the belt, while the silver pin, connected by a small chain, was used to secure the upper part.

The extremely refined craftsmanship and the quality of the gemstones make this jewel a piece of great rarity and historical value.

Origin: Yemen
Period: early 20th century
Dimensions: 6.8 × 8 cm (2.68 × 3.15 in)
Weight: 90 g (3.17 oz)