A DAMASCUS-WARE SILVER AND COPPER-INLAID BRASS DISH WITH STELLAR AND FLORAL DECORATION
Damascus, Syria, circa 1900

A large circular brass dish inlaid in silver and copper, the field decorated with an elaborate radiating design of geometric stellar and stylised floral motifs, each petal and star meticulously highlighted in alternating metals, surrounded by arabesque scrollwork and intricate geometric interlace, the border with a profusion of palmettes, rosettes and copper-inlaid latticework, the rim finished with calligraphic cartouches and ropework, the reverse plain and fitted with a suspension loop for wall display, produced in the great tradition of late Ottoman and Mamluk-revival metalwork that flourished in Damascus around 1900, such pieces were admired and exhibited internationally, including at the British Empire Exhibition of 1924–25, where objects from the Palestine and Syria pavilions showcased the region’s craftsmanship and cultural heritage, an impressive example of Islamic metalwork and Middle Eastern decorative arts, and of interest to collectors of Holy Land, Levantine, and Palestinian art.

37cm diameter