A NAZWA STYLE QURAYSHIA TRIBE BRASS DALLAH COFFEE POT
Bahrain or Saudi Arabia, early 20th century

Of classic flared cylindrical shape, rising from a wide splayed rounded base, engraved throughout with overlapping bands of vegetal scrollwork, fretwork and stylised flower heads, the tall conical lid surmounted by a pointed finial, with its distinctive ‘saw-tooth’ hinged lid-catch, with a boldly arched spout decorated with further floral designs and a curved handle on the opposite side, the overall design associated with the Qurayshia tribe, fitted with original chains, just below the rim a gold and red seal stamped in Arabic, testifying to the 'superior quality' of the ware, the base left plain displaying natural patina from age and use.

32cm high

This type of dallah, known as the ‘Nazwa’ style (دلة نزوى), is highly prized in the Arabian Gulf, with close links to Bedouin hospitality and coffee culture (qahwa), particularly among the Qurayshia tribe. This distinct shape is easily recognisable by the strong arch of the spout and the flared lower section. Early 20th-century examples from Bahrain and Eastern Saudi Arabia are increasingly rare, representing an important part of Gulf material heritage and Islamic decorative arts. Such pieces were often used in majlis gatherings, where serving coffee is a symbol of hospitality, social status, and tribal identity.

For a related example, please see the collection of the Bahrain National Museum. Other published examples can be found in Traditional Metalwork from Bahrain (Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities, 2012).