Engraved Brass Asma Ul Husna Shield

Details

Description

Arabic calligraphy has long been more than written language. Across Islamic metalwork traditions, sacred words were often engraved onto objects … Read more Arabic calligraphy has long been more than written language. Across Islamic metalwork traditions, sacred words were often engraved onto objects so that meaning and material could exist together. Shields, bowls and architectural elements frequently carried these inscriptions, turning everyday materials into surfaces of reflection.

The surface of this brass shield is covered with concentric bands of Arabic calligraphy arranged around a raised central dome. The composition closely resembles traditional Esma-ül Hüsna arrangements, where the divine names are distributed in circular order around the center. At the heart of the shield, the calligraphic medallion forms a visual anchor that draws the eye inward.

Diameter: 50 cm (19.7 inches) / Depth: 5 cm (2 inches)

Production begins with shaping a brass plate into a shallow shield form. Once the structure is prepared, the engravings are created using the traditional chasing technique, where fine steel tools are used to push and carve patterns directly into the metal surface. Each line is opened by hand, leaving subtle depth variations that cannot be reproduced by machines.

Historically, the shield form symbolized protection and strength. When combined with sacred calligraphy, the object becomes both decorative and symbolic.

Displayed on a wall, the brass surface reflects light softly while the engraved calligraphy reveals itself gradually depending on the viewing angle. It works especially well in interiors that include traditional art, historical objects, or architectural elements inspired by Middle Eastern design. See less