Lot 139: AN ISLAMIC OCTAGONAL LAPIS LAZULI CALLIGRAPHIC AMULET OR SEAL, 19TH CENTURY

This octagonal amulet or seal is carved from a single piece of lapis lazuli, displaying a deep blue colour with characteristic scattered golden-toned inclusions of iron pyrite. The stone plaque features a bevelled edge and a plain, flat-polished reverse. The front face is decorated with an incised border following the octagonal form, enclosing three horizontal registers divided by two incised lines. Each register contains an inscription in early Kufic script, an archaic angular form of Arabic calligraphy.

L: 1.7cm