African Asian Art and Furniture

Wonderful pewter dish Not sure of its origin. I have dated it early 19th Century. It is possibly earlier. Interesting ownership inscription on the rim. Possibly Moorish? It would...

A good quality pair of Louis XVI style parquetry inlaid ormolu-mounted side tables, each with a single frieze drawers and raised on elegant cabriole legs terminating in scrolling orm...

A fine antique Asian Indian brass alms dish molded with a hamsa bird design and dating from the 19th century. The hamsa is believed to be based on ...

Handcrafted brass bowl, roll top round dome with rich Persian style design. This footed presentation brass dish keeps inside a crystal bowl which makes it the perfect caviar server...

A large antique early 19th century Indian brass votive oil lamp modeled as the Hindu deity, Lord Ganesha, circa 1800. A finely cast brass figure of Lord ...

Antique Middle Eastern Islamic art Moorish brass bowl engraved with Thuluth Arabic calligraphy.The polished brass bowl is profusely chased with vines and vegetal motifs and inscribed with Islamic verses of the Holly Koran.This bowl has been professionally cleaned and polished.Measures: Diameter 7.25" x 4" height Mouth opening: 5".Great Middle Eastern brass metalwork decorative Islamic art objects.Handcrafted Moorish hand-etched Islamic metal brass bowl.Engraved, incised and hammered with very fine Arabic Islamic calligraphy writing and geometric designs on brass vessel.Very Intricate fine Middle eastern Moorish Islamic Art metalwork, museum quality artwork.Late 19th Century.Date of Manufacture: Circa 1880.Condition: Wear consistent with age and use. Islamic brass metalwork is an intricate and beautiful form of art that originated in the Islamic world. It encompasses a wide range of decorative objects made from brass or other metals such as copper, bronze, and silver. Brass trays, in particular, are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and intricate designs. Islamic brass metalwork has a rich history that dates back to the early Islamic period, with its roots in the metalworking traditions of ancient civilizations such as the Persians, Greeks, and Romans. However, Islamic artisans developed their own unique styles and techniques, blending elements from various cultures and creating distinctive motifs that reflected Islamic aesthetics and religious beliefs. The process of creating brass trays involves several steps, each requiring specialized skills. Here is a general overview of the traditional techniques involved: 1) Design: A skilled artist or calligrapher creates the design for the brass object. Islamic brass metalwork often incorporates intricate geometric patterns, arabesques, floral motifs, and calligraphy inspired by Quranic verses or poetry. 2) Metalworking: The object is typically made from a sheet of brass or another metal. The metal is cut into the desired shape and then hammered or pressed to create the object. Traditional techniques such as repoussé (hammering from the reverse side) or chasing (hammering on the front side) may be employed to shape the metal. 3) Engraving: The surface of the metal is often decorated with intricate engravings or etchings. Skilled artisans use chisels, gravers, or other specialized tools to create fine details and elaborate patterns. 4) Filigree and Inlay: Some brass trays feature additional decorative elements such as filigree or inlay work. Filigree involves shaping thin wires of brass into delicate patterns and soldering them onto the tray's surface. Inlay work, on the other hand, involves embedding contrasting materials such as silver or copper into the brass, creating intricate designs. 5) Surface Treatment: After the main decorative work is complete, the tray may undergo surface treatments to enhance its appearance. This can include processes like polishing, buffing, or applying various chemical patinas to create an aged or oxidized effect. While this bowl has certainly witnessed the passage of time, it remains in remarkably good condition, with only minor signs of age that add character to its appearance. The patina on the brass enhances its antique allure, making it a truly authentic and captivating collectible. Arabic Calligraphy: The Arabic writing on the bowl is a work of art in itself. The calligraphy showcases the mastery of the scribe's hand, with flowing curves and intricate details that form an elegant script. The script may include Quranic verses, blessings, or poetic verses, depending on the bowl's origin and purpose. The inscriptions are not only visually striking but also carry profound meaning, making this bowl a beautiful representation of Islamic heritage. Intricate Patterns: In addition to the Arabic calligraphy, the bowl features intricate geometric patterns and motifs that further enhance its visual appeal. These patterns are a hallmark of Islamic art and reflect the mathematical precision and artistic creativity that defined Islamic craftsmanship. This antique Islamic brass bowl...

Antique 19th century middle Eastern tinned copper ewer. Nice decorative old rustic hand-hammered ewer in the Mameluke style. Moorish middle e...

Pair of antique 20th century Chinese hand painted porcelain vase. One has rim short light hair line inside, outside no hair line, s...

The hand-hammered brass Moroccan tray with fine intricate Islamic design is a stunning piece of craftsmanship that exudes the beauty and intricacy of Moroccan artistry. This exquisite tray showcases the rich cultural heritage and traditional metalworking techniques of the region.  The tray's design may also incorporate delicate cutouts , allowing light to pass through and casting beautiful patterns when the tray is placed in the sunlight. This adds an extra element of visual interest and elegance to the overall aesthetic. The tray has a hook in the back if you would like to use it as a wall decorative tray. it could function as a wall hanging, ottoman tray, or a display on a bar or coffee table, use it as a serving platter, catch all, vanity dish...

A beautiful Chinese-Tibetan brass trinket box with turquoise and coral glass inlay pieces. Great filigree design with has a wonderful patina. In good...

An exceptional, fine and impressive antique Chinese Export Silver card case; part of our diverse Asian silverware collection The anterior surface of this rare Chinese silver card case is ornamented with chased oriental figures amidst bamboo and foliate designs, accented with a fenced area and simplified structures, all on a matte background. The ornamentation incorporates a vacant shield shaped cartouche. The posterior surface of this silver card case is embellished with an exceptional chased decorated segmented iconic Chinese dragon design amidst clouds, also all on a matte background. The rounded sides of this antique silver cigarette case...

Burmese bronze elephant bell with stand. Age: Burma, 19th Century Size: Height 12.5 C.M. / Width 9 C.M. Size including stand: Height 23.5 C.M. Condition: Nice condition overall...