Bidspirit auction | A PERSIAN QAJAR TINNED COPPER

A PERSIAN QAJAR TINNED COPPER KASHKUL BEGGAR'S BOWL, 19TH-20TH CENTURY. - A boat-shaped kashkul or dervish's begging bowl, likely of Persian origin and dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. The vessel is made of tinned copper. The exterior surface is extensively decorated with chased and engraved patterns. A prominent horizontal band beneath the rim features dense Arabic calligraphy. Below this, the bowl is ornamented with large teardrop-shaped medallions containing scrolling foliate and arabesque designs, separated by smaller circular medallions with geometric interlace knotwork. The vessel terminates at both ends in zoomorphic dragon heads with open mouths and crested brows. An iron or steel link chain is attached for suspension. L: Approximately 27.5cm