Wonderful large Tuareg-made prayer box known as a Tcherot.  This newly made piece is crafted out of brass, with silver and ebony inlay.  The surface of the metal has beautiful traditional Tuareg designs etched into it.  The various silver metal pieces appear to be high quality silver.  Really nice, heavy,  show piece. 

Tcherots often contain Koranic verses or magical inscriptions that serve to protect the Tuareg from the malevolent power of the desert. The pendant is strung in the traditional Tuareg fashion, with a multi-strand cotton cord, leather "beads" across the top, and tassels hanging down each side.  It would be easy to cut the cord and use the pendant in your own creations, or wear it as is. 

This Tcherot measures approximately 4.5 inches wide by 4 inches high.  The cord measures approximately 30 inches.