Description:

Description:
An oval-shapedgem, deeply engraved with three lines of Arabic calligraphy in elegant naskh script. The text likely includes religious or protective phrases, finely spaced and cut with precision despite the gemstone’s hardness. The gem displays a rich green tone with high translucency and natural internal inclusions, polished to a lustrous finish on all sides.

The craftsmanship reflects exceptional lapidary skill, and the stone’s form and execution suggest it was intended for mounting in a ring or pendant. The clarity of the carving and brilliance of the material combine to give this piece both visual and spiritual resonance.

Dimensions:
1.32G 

1.5CM X 1.1CM

Comparable examples:

  • A 19th-century engraved emerald seal, Sotheby’s, Arts of the Islamic World, London, 24 April 2019, Lot 81, sold for £4,750. 

  • An oval Qajar emerald with calligraphic inscription, Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, London, 10 April 2013, Lot 89, sold for £4,200. 

  • A similar engraved emerald in the al-Sabah Collection, published in Treasures of the Mughal World, Keene and Kaoukji, 2001.

Provenance:
Private French Collection 

Note:
Emeralds were held in high esteem in Islamic art, not only for their beauty and value but also for their symbolic links to divine knowledge and protection. Inscribed emeralds like this one served as personal talismans and status symbols, often passed down through generations. The harmonious blend of script and stone makes this a refined example of Qajar devotional craftsmanship.

 

Accepted Forms of Payment:

MasterCard, Visa, Wire Transfer

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

PLAKAS

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
£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