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Surya Rutten

Large and Finely Chased Islamic 'Mamluk Revival' Brass Tray (Sini), likely Ottoman or Egyptian, Early 20th Century

A highly impressive and masterfully decorated large brass tray, or sini, representing an excellent example of the Mamluk Revival style that flourished across the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With a substantial diameter of approximately 60 cm, this piece showcases the exceptional skill of the artisan, featuring a dense and complex decorative program that covers its entire surface in the characteristic horror vacui (fear of empty space) tradition.

Material & Technique:
The tray is crafted from a heavy-gauge brass sheet, giving it a substantial and commanding presence. The intricate design has been executed entirely by hand using the chasing (repoussé) and engraving techniques. The artisan used a variety of fine-pointed tools ('kalem') and a hammer to meticulously indent and outline the motifs from the front, creating a rich, textured surface with remarkable depth and detail. The quality of the chasing is consistently high throughout the piece.

Design & Iconography:
The tray’s layout is a sophisticated composition of geometric, calligraphic, and figural elements, rooted deeply in Islamic artistic traditions.
Central Medallion: The focal point is a large, interlacing hexagram, known in Islamic culture as the Seal of Solomon (Mühr-ü Süleyman). This powerful symbol, associated with wisdom and protection, frames a central roundel and creates six diamond-shaped cartouches.

Figural & Zoomorphic Motifs: Within these cartouches are finely chased figural scenes and zoomorphic figures. These include depictions of what appear to be stylized lions, birds, and possibly mythical creatures, which were common motifs in secular Islamic metalwork, often symbolizing power, royalty, and the heavens.

Calligraphy: The design is enriched by multiple concentric bands of stylized Arabic calligraphy. The script is a decorative, flowing form, likely a variation of Thuluth or a stylized Kufic script. Rather than conveying a literal text, it functions as a powerful decorative element, intended to evoke blessings and the aesthetic beauty of the written word.

Geometric & Arabesque Fillers: All remaining space is intricately filled with classic Islamic decorative patterns, including scrolling vines (arabesques), floral rosettes, and repeating geometric motifs, creating a harmonious and unified visual effect.

Period & Origin:
While the style is a revival of the opulent metalwork produced during the Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt, this piece is a quintessential example of the renewed European and local interest in this aesthetic during the late Ottoman period. The specific workmanship and stylistic cues suggest a probable origin in one of the major artisanal centers of the era, such as Damascus, Cairo, or Istanbul, dating the piece to circa 1900-1940.

Condition:
The tray is in very good antique condition, consistent with its age. It exhibits minor surface wear and occasional small indentations as would be expected. Crucially, it retains a beautiful, deep, and undisturbed patina—the natural darkening of the brass over a century. This patina is highly desirable as it enhances the contrast of the chased design, highlights its intricate details, and serves as a testament to its authenticity and age. There are no signs of major damage, cracks, or modern repairs.

Dimensions:
Diameter: Approximately 60 cm (23.6 inches)
Rim Height: Approximately 3 cm (1.2 inches)

Good condition - 60 cm

Decorative tray - 60 cm - Brass - Egypt/Ottoman - ca. 1930-1940

Indian & Islamic Art

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Chulalongkorn: Rama V (1868-1910)

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Indian & Islamic Art

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Decorative tray - 60 cm - Brass - Egypt/Ottoman - ca. 1930-1940

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