Brass Relic Mystery

[ANTIQUARIAN]

I found this at a farm site (now a residential park setting) yesterday morning and have no idea what it might be. Under close inspection with a jewelers loop I think I can see the remnants of leather under one of the bent steel rivets on the end. Therefore, my feeling is this might have come off the back seat of a saddle.

I'd be interested in hearing any theories about it's age and purpose as well.

Thanks very much,
Dave


UPDATE

Hey Guys,

Just wanted to thank everyone for their input with regard to what this relic might be.

I like the suggestion made by 'releventchair' ... "On a western style saddle below the horn are called the pommel or swells. Their shape would maybe match your piece .
The only ones I have seen are on show saddles and no finding of if they had a function at one time like keeping rope off leather."

Thanks again, you're all what makes this site such a great resource for information!
Dave

UPDATED PICS - See Bottom

Here are a couple of Before & After pics of finds from this site after tumbling for 36 hours.
Dave

 

[tamrock]

Maybe an arm band trade item?? http://www.treasurenet.com/forums/my-best-finds/95430-indian-trade-silver.html

 

[ANTIQUARIAN]

Maybe an arm band trade item??

This certainly seems possible tamrock.
Of course, I would've been much happier if this had of been made of silver instead of brass!

Thanks for the link, very interesting stuff,
Dave