Approximately 2-5/8 inches high and 1-3/4 inches in diameter antique 19th-century coquilla nut pounce pot.
carved from the hard, hazel-brown shell of the coquilla nut, which comes from a Brazilian palm tree and was popular for small, intricate carvings in the 1800s.
Historically, these pots held pounce, a fine powder used to dry ink or prepare writing surfaces. Similar items were also utilized as thimble cases or pomanders (scent holders). I think my mom used it for needles or as a pin holder.
Vintage item sold as such, no chips or cracks