Description:

 AN ENGRAVED TINNED COPPER JUG WITH DRAGON HANDLE, DECCAN OR PERSIA, 17TH/18TH CENTURY
Deccan or Persia, 17th–18th century

Description:
Of robust, globular form, this large jug is crafted from tinned copper and richly decorated with dense calligraphic and vegetal engraving throughout. The central body is adorned with multiple horizontal bands of elegant naskh script interspersed with floral and arabesque designs. The neck features tall inscriptions enclosed in cartouches, and the surface is further enhanced by a dramatic sinuous handle terminating in a dragon head finial, pierced with a circular motif at the midpoint. The base shows signs of wear and age with areas of oxidation consistent with long-term use and storage.

Dimensions: 24cm

This vessel exemplifies the high-quality metalwork associated with both Persian and Deccani courtly workshops during the early modern period. The inclusion of the dragon motif on the handle is a striking decorative feature seen in both Safavid and Deccani metalwork traditions, symbolizing protection and power.

Comparable examples:

  • A Deccani brass ewer with dragon handle, 17th century, sold at Christie’s, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 25 May 2017, Lot 147, for £9,375.

  • A Persian tinned copper ewer with similar calligraphic bands and zoomorphic handle, Safavid period, sold at Sotheby’s, London, 24 October 2018, Lot 162, for £8,125.

  • A comparable Mughal-period ewer with engraved inscriptions and sinuous handle, late 17th century, sold at Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, 22 October 2020, Lot 112, for £7,650.

Note:
The fusion of elaborate inscriptional design and zoomorphic elements suggests a courtly context, where such jugs were not merely utilitarian but also ceremonial or display pieces. The use of tinned copper was widespread in both Persian and South Indian metalworking centers, offering a durable yet aesthetically appealing surface for engraving.

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

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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