Featured Looking for an ID on an odd necklace container

Hello Everyone

I am a new member here and was hoping I could get some help to identify this odd item.
Silver plated kind of art deco looking container (snuff box?) that was apparently made to be hung around the neck. Only marking is the number 6 stamped on one side. About 2 1/2 inches across. Thanks in advance for any help.

 

I don't know why, but for some reason the shape of the flanking pillars (not sure what to call them) makes me think of Torah scrolls... I doubt it's anything religious, but just my initial impression.

 

Welcome, garageguy. I would look to slightly different parts of the Middle East/North Africa. I'm getting a Bedouin vibe. @Any Jewelry - thoughts?

 

So, it IS religious!

 

Welcome Garageguy.

Southern India. As inh said, a silver lingam box, or 'ayigalu'.
These were worn by members of the Lingayat sect and contained a small lingam, an oval stone which is a phallic symbol of the Hindu God Shiva.

I suspect it is solid silver, these generally are. They were worn by rich Lingayat members. I have never seen a plated one.
The necklace is entirely hand-plaited from very thin silver wire, by women with a delicate touch.
And not Art Deco, but at least 19th century, maybe older.

True, but no Torah.

 

Thank you everyone. I am really impressed with all the knowledgeable and fast answers. Greatly appreciated

 

keep showing us interesting stuff, and we'll do our best !!!

 

Snuff box looks like to me..

 

I think most people wouldn't like to take a sniff of a phallic symbol.

 

That's not a phallic symbol.And during the 19th and earlier centuries it was common practice to carry snuff boxes.I think you need to reevaluate what your seeing or thinking.

 

The lingam or phallic symbol was once inside. Did you read i need help's post and my extensive post? That explains it all.

I don't think I need to re-evaluate my knowledge on silver lingam boxes, known as 'ayigalus'. Please do not try to insult me, that never works well.
I can however suggest you read up on antique Indian silver.

 

*grabs popcorn*

 

too late and I did did not do anything you did its a snuff box and has nothing to do with a phallic...This is phallic

 

Do you have a crystal bowl that talks to you?

 

Exactly, but he doesn't want to know the truth.
For those who do, this is a lingam stone, a phallic symbol of Shiva:

Clueless people only listen to themselves.

And @paul rosplock , I really don't appreciate the insinuation that I am a pervert, especially when I have already explained the function of a silver lingam box very clearly. I am still considering whether to report you or not.

 

This is an original piece of antique 19th century tribal pendant and necklace, the pendant was designed as a container to hold a sacred lingam ...





This item.........your item......has nothing to do with snuff !!