Antique Copper Scroll Holder or Prayer Tube of Asian or Middle Eastern origin

AI Information: This antique copper scroll holder or prayer tube was often used in Himalayan, Tibetan, or Middle Eastern cultures to store sacred texts or protective amulets. The repoussé dragon and floral motifs on this scroll holder appear to be original to the piece’s construction rather than a later addition. Repoussé is an intrinsic metalworking technique where the design is hammered into relief from the reverse side of the metal before the sheet is rolled into its final cylindrical shape. The styling of the scales, the cloud scrolls framing the dragon, and the traditional wave or petal patterns along the bottom are structurally uniform and integrated tightly into the seam lines of the cylinder. Key Features/Material: Aged copper, brass, or bronze with a dark, weathered patina. (Note: I believe it to be copper based on the orange undertones.) Decoration: Ornate, dragon relief carvings or repoussé patterns along the body. Attachment: A short chain is fixed to the side, used for hanging or carrying the case. Function: A small cylindrical cap or lid opens to slide in a rolled-up paper or prayer scroll. This scroll holder was on display at The Dragon Dreams Museum in Chattanooga, TN. The museum closed permanently in 2016; I purchased the contents in 2024. It is just shy of 7 3/4”.