Description:

Lot 253. A MAGIC-MEDICINAL BOWL, PERSIA, 19TH CENTURY

This finely cast Persian bronze or brass bowl is an exquisite example of a magic-medicinal vessel, dating to the 19th century. The interior and exterior are densely engraved with elegant bands of naskh and thuluth inscriptions, invoking Quranic verses, prayers, and talismanic formulas intended for healing and protection.

Around the rim, a delicate frieze of calligraphy encircles the bowl, while the central boss—possibly symbolizing the “Well of Zamzam”—anchors the composition with radiating inscriptions. Suspended from the outer edge are numerous small engraved plaques or charms, each bearing inscribed invocations, enhancing the bowl’s spiritual potency.

Such objects were often filled with water, which was then consumed for its perceived curative and protective qualities. The combination of sacred script, numerical magic squares, and astrological symbols underscores the synthesis of science, faith, and mysticism in Persian healing traditions.

Diameter: 13 cm

Accepted Forms of Payment:

MasterCard, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

We have our own specialist packing and international shipping service and are happy to arrange this for you, we will add a postage and packing quote to your sales invoice. We also offer a door to door courier service to take the stress out of receiving delicate or expensive items.

If you are arranging your own professional delivery, please ensure that the lot has been paid for and the transport company has full details of the items being collected and an appointment has been booked. We work strictly on an appointment basis for dispatching goods.

If you choose to use our services we will ensure goods that have left the auction premises are in perfect condition, by choosing our in house professional packaging services you agree to our terms and conditions and do not hold us accountable for any damages or loss of items in transit. You will be provided with a tracking number and all our packages sent out will require a signature upon delivery. We do not insure goods dispatched unless asked to do so, which will incur additional charges added to your invoice upon request.

We thank you for using our specialist packing & shipping service and hope to continue to do business with you in the near future.

November 7, 2025 1:00 PM GMT
London, United Kingdom

PLAKAS

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 31% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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