This is another lovely example of an antique Tuareg prayer box known as a Tcherot.  The etching work on this piece is just a beautiful example of Tuareg craftsmanship.  The piece is done in two layers -- a silver front (most likely a mix of various metals), and a harder, darker silver background metal that comprises the back of the piece.  Just beautiful.  One of my favorite pieces we brought back from our recent trip to Morocco. 

Tcherots such as this one often contain Koranic verses or magical inscriptions that serve to protect the Tuareg from the malevolent power of the desert, and this one is hollow and rattles a little when shaken (wonder what's in there?).  This Tcherot measures approximately 2.5 inches square. 

There are three raised rectangles forming a small pyramid-like structure on this piece.  The top silver layer features an etched stylized "eye" that symbalize the "good eye", which is a traditional means of warding off the evil eye. To counteract the "evil eye", the Tuareg call upon the power of the "good eye."