Circa 1900 Mamluk Revival Islamic Engraved Brass Calligraphy Vases — Pair

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Description

A striking matched pair of monumental Mamluk Revival brass vases, probably Egypt or Syria, dating to the late 19th or … Read more A striking matched pair of monumental Mamluk Revival brass vases, probably Egypt or Syria, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century.

Substantial in both scale and weight, each vessel features a compressed globular body, broad spreading foot and dramatically flared trumpet neck articulated with successive ornamental registers. The brass surfaces are extraordinarily densely worked with scrolling vegetal arabesques, floral motifs, architectural borders and monumental circular Arabic Islamic calligraphy.

Four principal calligraphic compositions based on Qur’anic and Islamic inscriptions encircle each vessel, with corresponding compositions repeated across the matched pair. The integration of monumental calligraphy with dense arabesque ornament is characteristic of the Mamluk Revival metalworking tradition that flourished in Egypt and Syria around the turn of the 20th century.

The pair retains a particularly evocative aged surface. Deep brown and golden brass tones, darker recessed engraving and naturally occurring green verdigris give considerable depth to the intricate handwork. The surfaces have not been polished, preserving their warm aged patina and historic character.

At approximately 13 inches tall, 11 inches across and nearly six pounds each, these are exceptionally substantial decorative objects. Displayed together, their broad silhouettes and soaring flared necks have the presence of architectural sculpture.

Beautiful as collector’s objects in an Islamic or Middle Eastern decorative arts collection and equally compelling in a collected interior, library, gallery, entry console or layered global interior.

Dimensions & Weights: Each approximately 12.75–13” H × 11” W; approximately 5 lb 13 oz each.

Attribution: Mamluk Revival, probably Egypt or Syria; late 19th–early 20th century, with circa 1900–1930 as the working date. No maker’s signature has been identified.


Sellers notes: I am happy to answer any questions or provide additional pictures. This item will be shipped with adult signature required and insurance at not additional charge to the buyer.


Islamic, Mamluk Revival, Egyptian Revival, Cairoware, Middle Eastern, Moorish, Arabic Calligraphy, Antique Brass, Islamic Art, Arabesque, Collected Interior, Global, Warm Aged Patina, Layered Décor See less