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An impressive large Persian kettle featuring richly worked bird-and-flower decoration, an ornate brass carrying handle and a beautifully aged silver-colored surface. Measuring approximately 13 inches tall by 14 inches wide, this distinctive vessel combines sculptural presence with the intricate detail that makes traditional Persian metalwork so rewarding to collect.
Attributed to Iran, probably late 19th to early 20th century, the kettle is decorated in the Qajar tradition. Its craftsmanship is consistent with Persian qalamzani, also spelled ghalamzani—the art of decorating metal through meticulous hammer-and-chisel work, chasing and engraving. This craft is particularly associated with Isfahan, one of Persia’s celebrated centers of decorative metalworking, although the exact workshop and place of manufacture of this example are unknown.
The rounded body is encircled by elaborate scalloped, pointed cartouches containing stylized birds nestled among flowering branches and curling foliage. Angular strapwork, small rosettes and densely textured backgrounds create a lively interplay of pattern and relief. Fine details within the birds’ wings and surrounding leaves invite close inspection, while smaller floral panels connect the principal medallions into a continuous ornamental scheme.
These compositions draw upon the Persian gol-o-morgh, or “flower and bird,” tradition—a decorative vocabulary closely connected with Persian gardens, poetry, beauty and love. Favored throughout the Safavid and Qajar eras, bird-and-flower imagery brought the pleasures of the garden into objects made for the home.
The decoration continues across the sloping shoulder, removable domed lid and long, upward-curving spout. A faceted brass finial crowns the lid. Particularly appealing is the architectural brass handle, with stepped corners, sweeping C-scrolls and pointed flourishes, fitted with a dark turned wooden grip and wing-shaped fastening nuts. The circular foot completes the kettle’s substantial, balanced silhouette.
The body appears to be tinned copper, with brass fittings and a wooden grip. Its worn silver-colored finish, darker recessed ornament and exposed warm metal tones give the piece considerable depth and character.
A compelling addition to a collection of Persian decorative arts, Islamic metalwork or antique copperware, and an eye-catching accent for a library, mantel, console or curated interior.
DETAILS
• Origin: Attributed to Persia / Iran
• Style: Qajar tradition
• Estimated age: Probably late 19th to early 20th century; exact date unconfirmed
• Materials: Apparently tinned copper, brass fittings and wood
• Decoration: Hand-chased and engraved birds, flowers, foliage and geometric ornament
• Approximate dimensions: 13 inches tall × 14 inches wide
• Includes kettle and removable lid
• Maker unknown
CONDITION
Presented with its existing aged patina. Surface wear, scratches, dents, discoloration, oxidation and scattered green corrosion are present. There are irregularities around the foot and lid rim, along with wear and a visible split near one end of the wooden grip. Solder is visible around the spout attachment; its originality is undetermined. Interior wear and residue are present, and there is a handwritten inventory notation underneath. Water-tightness has not been tested. Offered as a decorative collectible; suitability for food use or heating has not been established. Please examine all photographs closely, as they form part of the description.
SHIPPING
Carefully packed and shipped with tracking and insurance within 1–2 business days.
