$1,850.00
19th century Mughal Indo Persian fine antique brass round tray hand chased with Islamic calligraphy in Mameluke style in the center. 19th century collector museum quality piece Mughal India style Islamic Brass tray.
A round polished tray from India, inspired by Mughal, Persian, and Islamic metalwork, is a breathtaking example of the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic heritage of the region. Handcrafted with skillful precision, this tray showcases a harmonious blend of cultural influences, resulting in a piece that is both visually captivating and historically significant.
Heavy solid gold polished brass, embossed and hand graved with fine Mughal Islamic calligraphy and geometric designs.
Hand-hammered decorative Asian Islamic Art brass collector metalwork decorative tray.
Dimensions: 17"W × 0.5"H.
Circa 1890.
The round polished tray in this style serves both as a functional item for serving food and drinks with grace and style, and as an exquisite decorative piece to adorn homes, showcasing the artistry and cultural heritage of India and its surrounding regions. It is a testimony to the enduring beauty and craftsmanship that has been cherished for centuries, a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate admirers around the world.
Arabesques, a hallmark of Islamic art, are gracefully interwoven patterns that symbolize the infinite and the interconnectedness of all creation. Calligraphy, featuring verses from the Quran or other religious or poetic texts, adds an element of spirituality and cultural significance to the design.
Islamic brass metalwork, including brass trays, is an intricate and beautiful form of art that originated in the Islamic world.
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.
Design: A skilled artist or calligrapher creates the design for the brass tray. Islamic brass metalwork often incorporates intricate geometric patterns, arabesques, floral motifs, and calligraphy inspired by Quranic verses or poetry.
Metalworking: The tray 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 shallow depression of the tray. Traditional techniques such as repoussé (hammering from the reverse side) or chasing (hammering on the front side) may be employed to shape the metal.
Engraving: The surface of the tray is often decorated with intricate engravings or etchings. Skilled artisans use chisels, gravers, or other specialized tools to create fine details and elaborate patterns.
Throughout history, Islamic brass trays have served various purposes, including as serving trays for food or beverages, as decorative items for homes or religious spaces, or as gifts for special occasions. They are often prized for their intricate craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the cultural and artistic heritage they represent.
It's important to note that Islamic brass metalwork encompasses a wide range of styles, techniques, and regional variations across different Islamic cultures and historical periods. Each region, from the Middle East, Asia, North Africa, from Syria to India to Morocco or Egypt, each country has its own unique artistic traditions, which have evolved over time, resulting in diverse and beautiful examples of Islamic brass metalwork.