Description:

A CALLIGRAPHIC INSCRIBED ROCK CRYSTAL AMULET, 19TH CENTURY, PERSIA
Qajar Iran, 19th century

Description:
A rectangular rock crystal amulet, finely engraved on both sides with Arabic inscriptions in delicate naskh script. The inscriptions are likely composed of protective Qur’anic verses or invocations. The natural clarity of the stone enhances the legibility and presence of the script. The edges are smooth and slightly bevelled, and the surfaces are polished to a high gloss.

The craftsmanship reflects the high technical skill involved in working such a hard and brittle material. The amulet shows minor surface wear consistent with age and careful devotional use.

Dimensions:
Length: 8cm
Weight: 96g

Comparable examples:

  • A 19th-century rectangular rock crystal amulet with calligraphic inscriptions, Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, London, 25 October 2016, Lot 74, sold for £7,500.

  • A similarly shaped crystal amulet with double-sided engraving, Sotheby’s, Arts of the Islamic World, London, 24 October 2018, Lot 91, sold for £6,875.

  • A related piece in the Khalili Collection, published in Arts of Islam: Treasures from the Nasser D. Khalili Collection, 2007.

Note:
Rock crystal amulets were highly valued in Qajar Iran for their spiritual properties and visual purity. The form and engraving style suggest this piece was not only a personal devotional object but also a statement of refined taste and religious dedication. The inscription, combined with the natural brilliance of the material, would have carried both protective and aesthetic significance.

 

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

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Bid Increments
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£0 £99 £5
£100 £199 £10
£200 £499 £20
£500 £999 £50
£1,000 £1,999 £100
£2,000 £4,999 £200
£5,000 £9,999 £500
£10,000 £19,999 £1,000
£20,000 £49,999 £2,000
£50,000 £99,999 £5,000
£100,000 £199,999 £10,000
£200,000 £499,999 £20,000
£500,000 £999,999 £50,000
£1,000,000 + £100,000