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Antique Islamic TALISMANIC Magico-Medicinal Qajar Bowl W. Persian Style Scripts - SignedAn interesting and highly decorative Persian Style/Islamic talismanic magic bowl, featuring an engraved central numerical magic square (wafq), Arabic/Persian-style inscriptions, symbolic animal imagery and extensive floral decoration.
Examples are known from the medieval Islamic period onward, with particularly elaborate metal examples produced during the Safavid and later Qajar periods. The British Museum, for example, has a copper-and-tin “magic bowl” made in mid 17th century during the Safavid dynasty.
The piece measures approximately 17.3 cm (6.8 inches) across.
Description & Historical ContextThe central feature is a clearly defined numerical magic square, consisting of Arabic/Persian Style numerals arranged in a geometric grid. Magic squares, known in Islamic occult traditions as wafq, were historically associated with numerology, astrology, protection and healing.
Surrounding the central square are engraved inscriptions and symbolic motifs, including a particularly prominent animals, together with additional decorative and possibly talismanic imagery. The outer field is decorated with an attractive engraved floral/foliate pattern, creating a series of concentric decorative zones.
Objects of this type belong to a long-established tradition of Islamic and Persian Style talismanic art. Such vessels were traditionally associated with protective and magico-medicinal practices. In historical contexts, inscriptions, Qur\'anic or devotional texts, numerical arrangements and symbolic imagery could be believed to provide protection from illness, misfortune or harmful spiritual influences. Some talismanic vessels were also associated with healing practices involving water.
Construction & DecorationShallow circular bowl formTinned CopperHand-engraved decorationCentral numerical magic squareArabic/Persian-style inscriptionsElaborate symbolic imagery and floral/foliate border decorationConcentric engraved decorative bandsAged surface with natural patination and wearCondition:Used antique condition with considerable age- and use-related wear
The surface shows oxidation, patination, rubbing and areas of discoloration consistent with age and use. There are also areas of alteration, particularly visible on the reverse and around the central area. Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.
A fascinating historic object with considerable decorative and ethnographic appeal.
Shipping with secure packing from New Castle upon Tyne, the UK.
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