**Originally Listed At $400**

Near East, Persia (Iran), ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A cast brass bowl etched with talismans and calligraphic inscriptions from the Koran, with a conical omphalos in the center. The bowl rests on a low ring foot, and the base is the only area bare of etchings. The interior and exterior of this bowl are almost completely covered with engraved bands and roundels of "nashkh" script. The flat rim has a small perforation for attaching a tassel with tablets that acted like prayer beads. The interior contains cartouche-shaped borders that frame some of the script from the rest. These magic bowls were used to cure illnesses and to divine the future. Water was placed in the bowl and the inscriptions would imbue the water with power that was transferred to the drinker. Size: 6.25" Diameter x 2" H (15.9 cm x 5.1 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection, acquired 2019; ex-Steen Stromberg collection, Copenhagen, Denmark

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#161097

Overall excellent condition. Light patina on foot ring and base cavity. Minor age commensurate surface wear and scratches.