✅ SOLVED Found In 1890s Yard, Really Cool But No ID Yet

[Natman]

This will be part of a display I'm making of finds in an old yard I searched over the summer...if anyone has ANY clue what this could be, please let me know. Intricate detailing on it, has a small part in the middle where something may have been fastened to it. I know it's the time period of the house and area. Thanks!
Nat

 

[GaRebel1861]

Part to a weight scale?

 

[Charlie P. (NY)]

As a purely WAG - part of the frame that was around a small hallway mirror or picture frame?

 

[nhbenz]

Part of a Victorian purse frame maybe?

 

[bologna321]

I'd guess purse frame as well...

 

[HuntinDog]

Half of the top frame of a hand bag.

 

[Natman]

Thank you all

 

[Joe-Dirt]

Hmmmmm, I’m going the purse route, looks like it’s missing a piece but cool nonetheless!!!

 

[A2coins]

That's hilarious how people can ID stuff. LOL

 

[Reanm8er]

Nice find Natman and congrats!

I may be pointing out the obvious here but it does look like tooled leather on both sides. This makes me think the strap went skinny side up so the tooling could be seen from both sides. With respect to the purse strap theory and the hardware, it may have been off some kind of valise designed to carry important documents or valuables. Perhaps the hardware once featured a tether to be attached to the wrist. I couldn't help but notice that the pattern in the tooling appears to be owl likenesses. You'd be wise to safeguard your items in this valise. Perhaps the owl is a trademark!

Best wishes and god hunting!