Coffee pot - Copper, Brass, Silverplated - Islamic Dallah Qajar

Magnificent and richly engraved antique coffee pot, known as a "Dallah" or "Aftabeh (Aftaba)", dating from the Ottoman and/or Qajar period.
This Persian coffee pot is crafted from brass, copper, or a copper alloy, with an iron handle. The body is non-magnetic, confirming its copper-based material; only the handle is magnetic.

The piece may originally have been Silver-plated, although this cannot be stated with certainty.

The finely detailed hand-engraved decorations of flora and fauna demonstrate outstanding craftsmanship. Traditional techniques such as engraving, chasing, and repoussé were used, with chisels and punches applied to create depth and relief in the metal.
The lush animal and plant motifs are characteristic of Ottoman and Qajar art and reflect Islamic artistic traditions.
The recurring symmetrical patterns represent the infinite nature, divine order, and balance of the universe, a key concept in Islamic art. Abundant leaves and flowers symbolize life and paradise, while the central cartouche with stylized birds and/or animals represents protection.

The simple yet authentic pin-and-knuckle hinge, a traditional Middle Eastern construction, further supports the antique origin of this coffee pot. The handle shows signs that an additional decorative element may once have been attached at its center.

On the underside, four engraved lines are visible, forming a square, possibly indicating a maker's or workshop mark. The exact meaning of this mark is not entirely clear.

The pot is untreated and displays a beautiful patina.
The interior is tinned. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was common practice to periodically visit a traveling tin specialist, known as a “Kalaiwallah,” to re-tin household vessels, as the tin layer naturally wore down through use. Tinning made the vessel safe for use with water, coffee, or tea.

A rare and highly decorative collector’s piece of Islamic and Arabic art from the Ottoman–Qajar period.