Lot 81: A PERSIAN SILVER COCKTAIL SHAKER BY MASTER JAAFAR, 19TH CENTURY

The vessel is of tapered cylindrical shape with a domed shoulder featuring an integrated pierced strainer and a push-fit cap. The exterior surface is densely decorated throughout using the traditional ghalam-zani chasing technique. The main body displays large polylobed medallions containing scrolling arabesque foliage, set against a background of the gol-o-bolbol (bird and flower) motif featuring various birds perched among roses and scrolling leaf sprays. Three horizontal registers of Nasta’liq calligraphy encircle the body, separated by floral and geometric borders. The decoration extends to the domed shoulder and cap. The interior of the shaker, strainer, and cap retain remnants of original gilding. The base is struck with three Persian marks identifying the workshop of Jaafar, the city of Isfahan, and the 84 silver standard (87.5 percent purity).

H: 24.5cm, Weight: 461g