Description:

A FINE LARGE TINNED COPPER SAFAVID EWER & BASIN, PERSIA, 17TH CENTURY
Persia, 17th century

Description:
This impressive set comprises a tall ewer with bulbous body, splayed foot, flaring neck, and a long curved spout, paired with a matching basin featuring a pierced central drain and broad rim. Both elements are richly decorated with finely engraved interlacing arabesques, palmettes, and split-leaf scrolls, set within ogival medallions typical of Safavid design.

The engraving on the ewer and basin exhibits remarkable precision and balance, reflecting the peak of Persian metalwork in the 17th century. The central pierced section of the basin suggests ritual use, possibly in handwashing ceremonies or within a palace context. The use of tinned copper adds a subtle sheen and historically offered protection against corrosion.

Comparable examples:

  • A Safavid tinned copper ewer and basin ensemble sold at Sotheby’s, Arts of the Islamic World, 27 April 2022, Lot 147, for £18,750.

  • A similar engraved basin with pierced centre from 17th-century Iran achieved £15,000 at Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, 13 June 2022, Lot 131.

  • A related ewer with comparable medallion decoration sold at Christie’s, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 28 October 2021, Lot 122, for £16,250.

Note:
Such ewers and basins were both practical and ceremonial, found in the palaces and elite households of Safavid Persia. The highly stylised engraving and refined forms reflect the aesthetic sophistication and courtly luxury of the period.


Height of ewer: 43cm

Diameter of basin: 29cm

Accepted Forms of Payment:

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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