Tibetan Leather Eating Utensils

Chopsticks, sheathed like a pair of tiny swords.

This pair of eating utensils from Tibet, made in the 19th century in wood and shagreen, was likely carried in a sheath. Cased chopsticks are commonly associated with travelers and Himalayan households. A long wooden case is wrapped in textured shagreen and banded with metal. Two slender, pale sticks emerge from the top, with a capped end visible above them. The case has a mottled brown surface worn smooth, and stands on a black stand.

About 10 inches tall. A very civilized way to eat on the road.