Is this a collar bar or ...?

I am not sure what this is exactly, which is why I am here. I don't know if it belongs in the jewelry section but this was my best guess.
Measures almost 1 3/4 inches wide and 1 3/4 inches tall and is flexible, somewhat like a spring. Any thoughts?

 

WOW! That is pretty cleverly shaped.
It can't really clip a sweater...I don't think...but it could clip on anything and be pretty cool.

 

Any other ideas? I've tried to sell this but I'm not sure how to describe it.

 

It seems too small for a collar item, although I admit it does appear to have a reasonable shape for such a use. It would have to be worn the opposite way up, though (with the little "buttons" at the top) right?

I suggest that you post this under the general Antique Discussion Forum to get members who would not normally look here under Textiles.

PS. I wonder if the size (and the need for such a thing) means it was for a small boy?

 

I'm betting it's a "tie" thing.

 

Looks like an old paperclip to me - just my 2 cents:

https://pietistschoolman.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/paper-clips-throughout-history.jpg

 

Not with the collar buttons on it. If you're tying a Windsor knot, and the button down won't over the thickness of the tie knot, this would be your gizmo.

 

Ah - that does make sense. The shape reminded me of some of those early paperclips but the buttons wouldnt make sense there I guess.

 

Yeah, paperclip type of thing was my first thought - and with the centuries old pounds and pounds of family papers I have gone through during the past two decades, I have seen some strange paper fasteners (including some very odd/early staples, some strings/threads threaded through neatly punched holes, etc.) - my favourite being the straight pins that rusted through until they crumbled instead of slipping out of the papers.............

I think this may have been used for some sort of lady's high collar, or a tie or scarf arrangement.

 

The paperclip history is interesting - I had no idea about the Niagara and all.

 

It might hold a book open?

 

That seems likely as well.................

 

For a Young Man's bow tie? Or to hold a high collar in place for a Vintage Lady???

 

I think it's a ladies undergarment thing......but no proof so far !

 

That is interesting. It does seem a little like the old garter clips.