Lot 251: A SAFAVID ENGRAVED BRONZE MAGIC BOWL, PERSIAN, 16TH CENTURY

A Persian copper alloy magic or healing bowl, also known as a Tasa, of shallow circular form with a central raised boss or omphalos. The interior and exterior surfaces are densely decorated with engraved Arabic calligraphy in Naskh and Thuluth scripts, including Quranic verses and healing invocations. The interior features multiple concentric bands of text, with the upper band containing sixteen circular medallions of script separated by stylised floral motifs. The central omphalos is also covered in calligraphic engraving. The exterior continues the decorative scheme with horizontal bands of script and four lobed floral and foliate medallions.

Diameter: 19cm