A SAFAVID ENGRAVED COPPER MAGIC BOWL, PERSIA, 17TH - 18TH CE...

Hammer

£750

A SAFAVID ENGRAVED COPPER MAGIC BOWL, PERSIA, 17TH - 18TH CENTURY

This magic bowl is a hemispherical vessel crafted from a copper alloy, specifically brass, with remnants of original tinning. The object is characteristic of talismanic metalwork from Iran, likely dating to the 17th or 18th century. The interior and exterior surfaces are densely decorated with fine engraved calligraphy and geometric motifs. The interior features a central boss surrounded by concentric bands of script in a cursive naskh style. The walls are divided into arching segments filled with multiple lines of Arabic calligraphy, including religious texts and protective prayers. Small circular medallions along the upper rim contain specific names, including Muhammad and Ali. The exterior base displays a central 4x4 magic square, known as a wafq, containing sixteen Eastern Arabic numerical characters. This central square is surrounded by a wide circular band of calligraphy and a series of large, petal-shaped medallions also containing extensive script. Such bowls were used for medicinal and protective purposes, intended to imbue water with the properties of the inscribed verses.

Diameter: 17.5cm