Container - Bronze - Kohl Container 19 th.

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Antique 19th‑century Islamic brass kohl container from Africa, with a multi‑legged base and rattle elements, measuring 11 × 9 × 9 cm and in excellent condition.

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Description from the seller

Antique Islamic Brass Kohl Container with Rattle Elements – 19th Century

Description:
This is an original antique Islamic kohl (surma) container, crafted in cast brass/bronze and dating to the 19th century. Such objects were traditionally used for storing and applying kohl, an eye cosmetic with both cosmetic and protective significance in Islamic and North African cultures.

The container features a distinctive multi-legged base with spherical terminals. Notably, two of the four spherical elements contain small stones, producing a subtle rattle or bell-like sound when the object is moved. This acoustic feature is typical of higher-quality traditional pieces and is believed to have served a protective and symbolic function, often associated with warding off the evil eye.

The central vertical tube was designed to hold the original kohl applicator stick (now missing, which is common for objects of this type). A flat upper plate served as a rest for the applicator. The surface shows an authentic, aged patina consistent with long-term use.

Material:
Brass / bronze

Origin:
Islamic world, North Africa or Middle East

Period:
19th century

Dimensions:

Height: approx. 11 cm

Weight: approx. 250 g

Condition:
Good antique condition with wear, surface patina, and minor casting irregularities consistent with age and use. The original applicator stick is no longer present. No modern repairs observed.

Remarks:
Objects of this kind were not purely utilitarian but also carried ritual and symbolic meaning, combining cosmetic practice with protective beliefs. The integrated rattle elements are a particularly desirable and authentic feature.

Antique Islamic Brass Kohl Container with Rattle Elements – 19th Century

Description:
This is an original antique Islamic kohl (surma) container, crafted in cast brass/bronze and dating to the 19th century. Such objects were traditionally used for storing and applying kohl, an eye cosmetic with both cosmetic and protective significance in Islamic and North African cultures.

The container features a distinctive multi-legged base with spherical terminals. Notably, two of the four spherical elements contain small stones, producing a subtle rattle or bell-like sound when the object is moved. This acoustic feature is typical of higher-quality traditional pieces and is believed to have served a protective and symbolic function, often associated with warding off the evil eye.

The central vertical tube was designed to hold the original kohl applicator stick (now missing, which is common for objects of this type). A flat upper plate served as a rest for the applicator. The surface shows an authentic, aged patina consistent with long-term use.

Material:
Brass / bronze

Origin:
Islamic world, North Africa or Middle East

Period:
19th century

Dimensions:

Height: approx. 11 cm

Weight: approx. 250 g

Condition:
Good antique condition with wear, surface patina, and minor casting irregularities consistent with age and use. The original applicator stick is no longer present. No modern repairs observed.

Remarks:
Objects of this kind were not purely utilitarian but also carried ritual and symbolic meaning, combining cosmetic practice with protective beliefs. The integrated rattle elements are a particularly desirable and authentic feature.

Details

Era
1400-1900
Title additional information
Kohl Container 19 th.
No. of items
1
Country of Origin
Africa
Material
Bronze
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
11 cm
Width
9 cm
Depth
9 cm
Estimated period
1850-1900
GermanyVerified
73
Objects sold
100%
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