Spanish colonial artifact help

[perdidogringo]

Hi All,

Below please find a couple of photos of an item uncovered on land in Latin America with a history of Spanish colonization going back to the early 1500s. I have no idea what it could be but it seems to be made out of mostly copper/brass and is quite ornate with enameling/gold plating on the front. I'd appreciate some educated guesses from those in the know. Thanks in advance!

 

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[bradyboy]

bolo, scarf slide?
Brady

 

[ARC]

I think this may bridal related.

 

[Blak bart]

I belive its a strap keeper for horse tack...a very ornate one. It would have kept the tail of a leather strap on a horse bridal/tack after buckle adjustment. Only a guess !!

 

[Blak bart]

Sure is a killer find. Congrats !!

 

[perdidogringo]

I belive its a strap keeper for horse tack...a very ornate one. It would have kept the tail of a leather strap on a horse bridal/tack after buckle adjustment. Only a guess !!

That makes a lot of sense! We find a lot of items related to horses and mules in the area...

 

[Blak bart]

Would be a special piece for someone important.....possibly high up spanish officer. The spanish colonial officers spared no expense in draping there war horses in decorative tack !!

 

[lenin]

I though it was part of a Bookclasp... But the horse strap thing makes more sense.