I have absolutely no idea what this is...

[JAT]

Please note:  I am researching this item for a friend of mine whom I'll just say isn't very technologically savvy; she does her very best however.  Therefore, the photos are pretty bad.  I had hoped that perhaps someone on this site just might be able to hopefully lead me in the right direction.  My friend indicated to me that for one, she just doesn't know what she has in her possession; it initially belonged to her great grandmother and may have been passed on by her husband, the "handle" if you will is approximately 10" long, the octagon end is approximately 4x4x3" with a lid on it and is metal.  My friend feels that the "carvings" are nautical; I'm not so sure that I agree.  Nevertheless, I'm trying to help.  She's not necessarily wanting to sell it, but perhaps may some day, and just wants to know what on earth this item is.  I've done quite a bit of research and have come up with zero.  Everyone here has been so very helpful.  In advance I appreciate any assistance you might be able to provide.

[talesofthesevenseas]

the crane and the fish that I can see look Japanese to me. The fish looks like a koi. I don't think this is nautical. I'm taking a guess that it could be a "silent butler" into which crumbs are swept from the tablecloth.

[JAT]

talesofthesevenseas,
Thank you for your very quick response and redirecting me in a totally different direction.  I have known what silent butlers are however after reading your response I did a quick search and realized that silent butlers aren't necessarily flat which is what I thought they were.  Regarding the latter - boy was I wrong!  The octagon shape however is throwing me off, but of course one learns something new every day so ya never know.  If it is what you think it might be I wonder if it could have been handmade?  I don't know - just a thought - I could very well be completely wrong on that.  Again, thank you.

the crane and the fish that I can see look Japanese to me. The fish looks like a koi. I don't think this is nautical. I'm taking a guess that it could be a "silent butler" into which crumbs are swept from the tablecloth.

[talesofthesevenseas]

I couldn't find one exactly like it either. However it looks like it is designed to be held to the side, like a waiter or servant might do when sweeping the tablecloth in a restaurant or a home that had a domestic help.

[mart]

How does it open ?? Can`t tell from the pics ,,can just see the loops !!

[JAT]

How does it open ?? Can`t tell from the pics ,,can just see the loops !!

Hi Mart.

Regarding your question, I just e-mailed the owner about that.
Thank you for your response.

~JAT

[JAT]

I couldn't find one exactly like it either. However it looks like it is designed to be held to the side, like a waiter or servant might do when sweeping the tablecloth in a restaurant or a home that had a domestic help.

Regarding the size, at first I was thinking that those dimensions are pretty small so I drew it out and its actually a pretty decent size for the task.  From what I researched there were quite a few silent butlers with dimensions that weren't all that large when you compare them to the flat versions... If it is what you're thinking it is and I'm beginning to think you're right the woman is going to be quite surprised.  Again, I appreciate your time and efforts.  I wonder what the history is behind that piece.

[KC]

Please find out if the two ringed finger handles (top and bottom) move in order to open the lid - how the mechanism works.

It is a very ornate piece with an Asian theme.

Do you know what it is made of?  Is it metal?  Painted wood?

[wendy177]

Looks to be something used in a tea Ceremony, I'm with KC how does it open???

[JAT]

Please find out if the two ringed finger handles (top and bottom) move in order to open the lid - how the mechanism works.

It is a very ornate piece with an Asian theme.

Do you know what it is made of?  Is it metal?  Painted wood?

I just e-mailed her on this question.
Thanks so much for your assistance!  You've all been great!

[JAT]

Looks to be something used in a tea Ceremony, I'm with KC how does it open???

Hmmmm... another possibility.  I'm checking with the owner regarding how it opens.  I'm not sure if she's working right now or not and so therefore may or may not have access to her e-mail.  Will get back as soon as I find out.  Very, very interesting.  I appreciate everyone's time and efforts - you've all be great!