A Brass 'Magic' Bowl
Iran or Central Asia, 19th century
Circular in form with an indented tapering base, the centre marked with a boss, the finely engraved decoration with cusped medallions around and talismanic inscriptions overall.
Iran or Central Asia, 19th century
Circular in form with an indented tapering base, the centre marked with a boss, the finely engraved decoration with cusped medallions around and talismanic inscriptions overall.
Iran or Central Asia, 19th century
Circular in form with an indented tapering base, the centre marked with a boss, the finely engraved decoration with cusped medallions around and talismanic inscriptions overall.
Islamic magic bowls are documented as early as the twelfth century, although an increased production is attested during the Safavid period (1501-1722). Hemispherical in shape, these bowls are engraved with a range of motifs including magic squares, religious invocations, astrological signs, and Qur’anic verses, whose “healing” power was believed to have protective and therapeutic functions on those who used the vessels.