Another 'penholder'?

The "Penholders?" thread has nudged me to search out this curiosity from storage.

What is it?

There are six holes around the side but there is no lid, so no way of pouring anything inside.  The 'nipple' on the top looks like string could be used to suspend it so I guess a 'pomander' is a possibility but it doesn't seem very practical.

At one time I thought is might be a 'joss stick holder' but there's nothing to catch the ash.  A pen or brush holder would, similarly, run the risk of ink/paint drips.






I'd be interested if anyone could identify the potter from the mark, too.

All the best
Greenie

Pomander maybe? Difficult to tell when there isn't a hole to refill it. Could also be used as a Pen holder or posy vase
The mark looks inscribed rather than stamped which may point to a hobby potter or bought on holiday abroad

Thanks for getting back to me, Naomi.

An oddity which might yet prove be a useful addition to the database, if nothing else!

Regards,
Greenie

a weight perhaps