Lot 218: A SELJUK ENGRAVED COPPER ALLOY CALLIGRAPHIC BOWL, PERSIA, 12TH - 13TH CENTURY

A deep, rounded copper-alloy bowl originating from the Seljuk period, likely dating to the 12th or 13th century. The vessel features a gently tapering body, a short constricted neck, and a narrow everted rim. The exterior is densely decorated with three horizontal registers of engraved ornamentation. The primary central band consists of a continuous frieze of calligraphic Arabic script in a stylized hand, where the vertical elements of the letters are interlaced with scrolling foliate motifs. This main band is interrupted by small circular medallions containing geometric designs. Above the central frieze is a narrower register featuring elongated rectangular cartouches filled with scrolling vine-work. The lower section of the bowl is decorated with a rhythmic series of pendant pointed arches, a common motif in Islamic metalwork of this period. The rim is finished with a finely engraved braided or guilloche pattern. The interior and the base show visible signs of hand-hammering and surface oxidation.

Diameter: 24cm