Coupe talismanique

Iran, Timurid or Safavid art, 15th-16th century A copper-alloy central umbilicus, with incised and engraved decoration, the inner walls tinned and partially inlaid with black paste. The umbilicus is decorated with four three-lobed fleurons on a hatched background and surrounded by a thuluth frieze, evoking the "Nad-e Ali". The interior walls feature religious invocations and Koranic verses in interlaced medallions and cartouches. The exterior is decorated with votive formulas, abjad figures and Qur'anic verses inscribed in stylized mihrab arches. On the outer edge, a thuluth frieze gives the names of the Prophet and the twelve Shi'ite imams. On the background is a name: "Be Esmé [Nour Qoloubat] Khawja Ali / In the name [of the light of your heart] Khawja Ali". Size: 19.5 x 5.5 cm Similar work : James W. Allan, Metalwork of the Islamic World, The Aron Collection, London 1986, cat. no. 21, for a Jezireh model, 15th century, with similar elements. Provenance: Former collection of Mr. D. M. (1942-2017) A Timurid or early Safavid copper tinned talismanic bowl, 15th-16th century