Large Islamic Brass Calligraphic Two-Handled Vase, Circa 1920

Details

Description

An impressive early 20th-century Islamic brass vase, circa 1920, distinguished by its monumental 28-inch height, elegant amphora-inspired silhouette, twin loop … Read more An impressive early 20th-century Islamic brass vase, circa 1920, distinguished by its monumental 28-inch height, elegant amphora-inspired silhouette, twin loop handles and extensive hand-worked decoration.

Entirely handcrafted in brass, the vessel has a tall architectural profile. A broad conical lower body rises from a flared circular foot before narrowing dramatically at the waist and opening into a cylindrical upper section. The mouth terminates in a gently flared rim, while a pair of substantial ribbed loop handles flank the upper body and give the piece a particularly sculptural presence.

The surface is richly worked using traditional metalworking techniques, including hammering, engraving, chasing and hand-etched decoration. Bands of intricate ornament extend around the vessel, incorporating scrolling arabesques, geometric motifs and medallion-like reserves containing Arabic calligraphic decoration.

Rather than being applied ornament, the decoration has been worked directly into the brass surface, creating subtle variations in depth and texture that become particularly apparent as light moves across the vessel.

The combination of Arabic calligraphy and arabesque ornament places the vase firmly within the broader decorative vocabulary of Islamic metalwork. Calligraphic decoration has historically played an important role throughout Islamic decorative arts, where written forms can function simultaneously as inscription and visual ornament.

The vase's imposing proportions are another important feature. At 28 inches high and approximately 13 inches across its widest point, this is a substantial decorative object rather than a small tabletop vessel. Its tall, tapered silhouette makes it particularly effective displayed on a low console, substantial pedestal, architectural niche or directly on a raised plinth.

The brass retains a warm, naturally aged surface with variations in color and tone that emphasize the hand-worked decoration. Areas of wear, oxidation and irregularity contribute to the character of the piece and provide an attractive contrast to the more reflective areas of brass.

Dating to approximately 1920, the vessel reflects the continuing international fascination with Islamic and Moorish decorative arts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its combination of monumental scale, elaborate metalwork and strong architectural silhouette makes it particularly appealing within both traditional and contemporary interiors.

The vase would work especially well as a statement object within a Mediterranean, Moorish, Islamic, Spanish Colonial, Orientalist or sophisticated contemporary interior, where its aged brass surface can provide warmth against limestone, plaster, dark wood or other natural materials.

Condition is good and consistent with age and use. The vessel retains surface wear, patination and some dents and minor structural imperfections, as visible in the photographs. These should be considered part of the object's antique character rather than concealed through excessive restoration.

A substantial example of early 20th-century Islamic decorative metalwork, combining Arabic calligraphic ornament, traditional hand-working techniques and an unusually elegant large-scale form.

Dimensions: 28 in. H × 13 in. diameter at widest point
Top opening: approximately 8 in. diameter
Base: approximately 8 in. diameter
Period: Early 20th century
Date: circa 1920
Material: Brass
Techniques: Hand-hammered, engraved, chased and etched
Style: Islamic / Moorish
Condition: Good antique condition with wear consistent with age and use, including patina, surface irregularities, dents and minor structural imperfections. See less