Egypt (Mamluk Sultanate, 1250–1517)
Around 1320–41
Brass, hammered, chased and inlaid with silver
Diameter: 30.7 cm (rim), Height: 16.5 cm
This vessel is thought to be a water bowl. Its scale and calligraphic style are typical of brass objects dating from the reign of Sultan al-Malik al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun (from 1293 to 1341). Silver inlay accentuates its bold inscription and floral embellishments.
The objects in The Courtauld’s collection of Islamic metalwork were made in the Middle East and North Africa between around 1250 and 1500. Such pieces were prized for their superb craftsmanship.
Metalworkers from present- day Iraq, Iran, Egypt, Syria and Turkey perfected the technique of inlaying silver into sheets of hammered and chased (indented) brass. Calligraphic inscriptions, geometric patterns and images of hunters and musicians were popular decorations for these luxury objects.