An Ottoman Silver and Velvet Cartridge Case (Palaska), Turkey or Balkans, 19th Century
Auction Closed
April 29, 12:32 PM GMT
Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 GBP
Lot Details
Description
the case covered with red velvet on the front, back and inner flap, with red woven textile on the side and interior leather protective flap, outer flap with chased silver cover, yellow velvet lining, and two old collection labels, with original straps and en-suite pouch
23cm.
Philippe Missillier Collection no.76C
Cartridge cases, known as palaska in Turkish, were worn on a belt. They were used throughout the Ottoman Balkans, with the design varying according to locality and according to the religion of the owner. This example, with a crescent and star, was owned by a Muslim, as was an example with stylised calligraphy naming the Prophet Muhammad and fourth caliph ‘Ali in the Folk Museum, Athens (Robert Elgood, The Arms of Greece and her Balkan Neighbours in the Ottoman Period, London: Thames & Hudson, 2009, p.127, no.137). Greek examples could be decorated with human figures, including examples in the Benaki Museum and the Stephanis Foundation, Athens (Elgood 2009, p.125, nos.134, 135. Elgood discusses cartridge cases and gunpowder: Elgood 2009, pp.117-129.)
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