✅ SOLVED Small brass item

[robertk]

I found this at an 1890's home site. It's small, maybe 3/4" long and 1/4" diameter. The photos show it sitting on the handle of a kitchen knife. I didn't realize until taking the photos that the "ball" is probably hollow. I may see if I can clean the dirt out of it. The "flat" part also has some structure to it. It does not have a hole all the way through, though it does look like there's a hole on the "back" side of it. Does anyone know what it is? (click photos to enlarge)

 

[ticndig]

It looks like a cam. but from what I don't know.

 

[Limitool]

Truly don't know... but, maybe when "mounted" correctly it turned something on / off..? But the small size doesn't exactly support that idea.

 

[Gene Mean]

That's an interesting one.

 

[releventchair]

Reminds me of a joint on an adjustable lampshade or something.
The ball pictured doesn't show wear (?) and still has multiple unpolished casting seams.

(This is not a match.)

 

[ncsuwolf]

id guess the flat part does have a hole all the way through. In the first pic you see a raised area on the flat part. I’d say that the head of a rivet/screw/bolt that broke off.

 

[beepbleep]

Could it be a bell clapper?

 

[searcher]

The ball part is split into four and appears to be hollow.

Maybe a pendant bell.

 

[Gene Mean]

Could it be a bell clapper?

I think you've got it.

 

[robertk]

Could it be a bell clapper?

It sure looks like you that last example photo, doesn’t it? I think that’s it. Must have been a small bell.