Antique 19th Century Islamic Revival Brass Vessel | Egyptian Mamluk Style Repoussé Bowl | Sphinx Court Scenes 16” [Cm]

Details

Description

Exceptional large antique brass vessel, likely dating to the 19th century and possibly Egyptian or Middle Eastern, with elaborate hand-worked … Read more Exceptional large antique brass vessel, likely dating to the 19th century and possibly Egyptian or Middle Eastern, with elaborate hand-worked decoration inspired by historic Islamic and Mamluk metalwork.

Measuring an impressive 16 inches wide by 9 inches high, the substantial rounded vessel is extensively decorated in repoussé and chased relief. A continuous series of narrative scenes surrounds the body, including sphinx-like creatures, deer or gazelle-like animals, elaborately dressed courtly figures, sailing vessels, palm trees, architectural elements, birds, and dense foliage.

Circular medallions contain particularly detailed figural and animal scenes, while the surrounding registers create an almost continuous imagined landscape. Around the lower portion is a dramatic band of large calligraphic or pseudo-calligraphic forms, reminiscent of the monumental inscriptional decoration associated with historic Islamic metalwork.

The combination of figural imagery, sphinxes, animals, courtly scenes, geometric borders and calligraphic-inspired ornament gives the vessel a particularly striking Islamic Revival / Mamluk Revival aesthetic. Egyptian origin is possible, although the precise place of manufacture has not been established.

The underside displays extensive concentric hand-tooling, further contributing to the wonderfully handmade character of the piece.

Dimensions: Approximately 16” W × 9” H.

Condition: Antique condition with considerable age and character. Surface wear, oxidation, dents, irregularities and evidence of old repairs are present throughout. There is a vertical split/crack extending downward from the upper rim. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

A remarkable and unusually large piece of antique brasswork with exceptionally rich narrative decoration. Beautiful displayed as a sculptural vessel, centerpiece, or addition to a collection of Islamic, Egyptian or Middle Eastern decorative arts.

Attribution note: Exact maker, country of origin, date, original function, and meaning of the calligraphic-style decoration are unknown. The piece is described as 19th-century Islamic Revival, possibly Egyptian/Mamluk Revival, based on its construction, form and decorative vocabulary. See less