Vintage Silver Begging Bowl Kashkul Sufi Islamic Necklace

An interesting begging bowl or kashkul silver necklace from Central or Western Asia from the first half of the twentieth century.  The necklace is made of low silver components and handmade chain.  The begging bowl is associated with Islamic Sufism since the traveling dervishes used such a bowl to beg for food as they passed by and these mystic Sufis contributed to the spread of Islam in Central Asia.

A similar pendant can be seen in the Musee Quai Branly's  on line collection.  It is possible that this necklace was part of a bigger necklace.   The central pendant is the begging bowl.  From it descends a smaller begging bowl.  The necklace also has repousse and flat dangles. In good vintage condition.

• Chain length is 21 inches or 53.5 cm. 
• The main pendant is 4 x 11 cm or 1 1/2 x 4 3/8 inches including dangles. 
• Weight is 52.5 g.