Description:

Lot 157. A SELJUK SILVER-INLAID CALLIGRAPHIC BRONZE CASKET, 11TH CENTURY

This rare and finely crafted Seljuk bronze casket is of rectangular form, set on four slightly flared feet, with a hinged pyramidal lid surmounted by a rounded handle. The entire surface is intricately inlaid with silver, forming bands of kufic inscriptions and interlacing geometric motifs of remarkable precision.

The decoration features a dense interplay of linear and vegetal patterns, with the kufic inscriptions framed by scrolling arabesques and braided borders. On the body and lid, finely chased figures and medallions enhance the rhythmic geometry of the design, while traces of red and green patination enrich the surface.

Caskets of this type were prized luxury objects, often used to store precious manuscripts, jewelry, or perfumes. Their production reflects the extraordinary skill of Seljuk metalworkers, who perfected the art of inlaying silver into bronze and brass. This example, dating to the 11th century, exemplifies the aesthetic sophistication and calligraphic elegance that would come to define Islamic metalwork for centuries to follow.



Length x Width x Height: 21 x 13.5 x 24cm

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

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