Description:

Lot 210. A QAJAR GOLD-DAMASCENED CALLIGRAPHIC STEEL PLAQUE
Persia, 19th Century

Of circular form, finely decorated in gold damascening on a dark brown steel ground with an elegant inscription in bold thuluth script. The composition, arranged concentrically, displays the shahada in fluid overlapping strokes, the gold inlay retaining its warm lustre against the subtly patinated surface. A small central aperture may indicate former attachment or mounting. The steel shows a smooth, even tonality with light abrasions and oxidation consistent with age.

The reverse is plain, with traces of hammering and areas of dark patination, showing the dense, slightly granular texture of the steel beneath the gilded face.

Such calligraphic plaques were produced in Qajar Iran as devotional objects and expressions of piety and craftsmanship. The combination of fine steelwork and damascened gold exemplifies the artistic refinement of Qajar metalworkers, who revived and elaborated upon earlier Islamic techniques to create richly ornamented inscriptions for domestic and religious interiors.

Measurements: Diameter 11 cm

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

PLAKAS

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