Lot 164: A MUGHAL ENGRAVED BRONZE DIVINATION/MAGIC BOWL, INDIA, 18TH CENTURY

Is densely decorated throughout with engraved and chased calligraphic and figurative motifs intended for talismanic purposes. The exterior body is decorated with a primary register of twelve circular medallions containing human figures in various poses and quadrupeds, set against a background of fine Arabic script. Below this, near the base, is a further band of calligraphic inscriptions within lobed compartments. The interior features a central raised boss or omphalos surrounded by concentric bands of calligraphy. The main body of the interior is divided into larger radiating panels by interlocking architectural arches, each filled with several lines of fine Naskh or Thuluth script. These inscriptions typically include Quranic verses, such as the Ayat al-Kursi (Throne Verse), and prayers for health. 

D: 19cm