Please help me identify this. Only thing my great-grandfather ever gave me. Indian relic??

[silverman]

My great-grandfather was a troubled man. He was never family oriented, lived a reclusive life, and was a garbage man who hoarded what others threw away. When I was 7 years old, he passed away, but in a rare act of affection, gave me this. He didn't tell me where it was from, but I assume it was from someones trash. Even though my great grandfather was not a part of my life, this still means something to me because it was from him. I want to pass this on to my children, and would like to know more about it. Any help would be appreciated. It is copper, with an Indian design on the front lid. Its approx 3" long, 2 1/2" wide, and 1" deep. Any info is greatly appreciated.
Thanks

 

[silverman]

n/t

 

[kapidr]

No clue as its origins, but I love the sentiment behind it.

 

[bootyhoundpa]

if i had to guess silverman i would say that is probably a piece of tramp art...... its very nicely done and im sure the monitary value could never come close to the sentimental value..... probably one of a kind... simple yet beautiful....

 

[silverman]

Thanks for the kind words, and helpful information. I really appreciate your time.
Brian

 

[NoMe]

Could it be a snuffbox, very popular years ago. Interesting

 

[Elton]

Looks a lot like shop class productions . Graded on designs, and smooth soldering joints. Looks really Nice.

 

[charlie dert]

Here is a link to something similar. looks like possibly from the Navajo or another southwestern tribe from the triangular designs and the use of copper and silver.

http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/native-american-hand-made-copper-silver-box.

maybe a jewelry or keepsake box. Most tribes were subdivided by clans..bear, eagle, dog, turtle, wolf. etc. my guess is that the maker was marking it with his clans symbol. (looks like dog or wolf) priceless to you whatever it is...

 

[charlie dert]

As an added note it was common for tribes to be subdivided into clans represented by animals like the bear, dog, eagle, turtle, wolf, etc. My guess is that the maker was indicating his clan with the animal design..looks like maybe the dog or wolf clan symbol. Very cool.

 

[charlie dert]

didn't think my editing was done in time but I can see now that it went through...hope the information helps solve your mystery..

 

[silverman]

Wow! Thank you Charlie! That must be what it is, as it looks very similar. I'm going to, research it some more now that I have a good idea about its origin. Thank you to all that commented , and tried to help.
Thanks again Charlie for helping solve this family mystery.
Brian

 

[Carolina Phil]

I've done some internet searching on this earlier in the week but I've been to busy recently to respond.

 

[silverman]

That looks VERY similar to mine Phil. Than you so much, I'm now convinced is is what mine is, except mine has silver as well as you pointed out. I appreciate everyone's help, and am now confident in knowing its true origin.