Gold Mounted ‘Lucky Bone’ of a Tiger (1800 to 1900 England)

Bone, Gold

‘Lucky Bones’ are the clavicles of lions and tigers. The collar-bones of the cat family have evolved over time to become tiny vestigial structures. In India those of the tiger were prized as amulets and believed to possess magical properties. In the late 19th century they became highly regarded by the big game hunters of the Raj and many were sent back to be mounted in gold and then worn as souvenirs of a successful hunt.

The Gold Mounted ‘Lucky Bone’ of a Tiger
Marked ‘J.B and Co’ 9ct
Circa 1890 – 1900

Size: 7.5cm wide – 3 ins wide