Description:

Lot 158. A COCO-DE-MER BEGGAR’S BOWL (KASHKUL), QAJAR IRAN, 19TH CENTURY

An elegantly carved kashkul fashioned from the shell of a coco-de-mer, its distinctive double-lobed form richly decorated in low relief with scrolling vegetal motifs, arabesques, and finely executed inscriptions. The dense foliate patterning spreads symmetrically across the entire surface, incorporating calligraphic cartouches and bands of naskh and thuluth script interwoven with tendrils and blossoms.

The vessel’s rim is carved with scalloped edges around the opening, and both ends display intricately rendered panels enclosing epigraphic designs. The natural curvature and polished surface of the coco-de-mer provide a lustrous ground, while traces of patina attest to long devotional use.

Kashkuls were traditionally used by dervishes and Sufi mendicants to collect alms, serving both a practical and symbolic function. This example exemplifies the refinement of late Qajar craftsmanship, where calligraphic artistry and natural form merge seamlessly to create an object of spiritual and aesthetic depth.

Length x Width x Height: 35 x 16 x 12.5cm

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November 4, 2025 1:00 PM GMT
London, United Kingdom

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