Lot 506 Dα

An Islamic mortar

Shimmering golden brown cast brass/bronze with engravings and copper inlays, with natural patina. Of tapering form, decorated with two rows of lotus bud motifs alternating with small bird medallions. The upper rim inscribed with bands of calligraphy, one in Naskh that reads: "Al-‘izz wa-l-Iqbal wa-l-dawla wa-l-karama wa-l-baqa‘ li-sahibihi" (strength, fortune, power, renown and longevity to its owner). With a horizontal crack and dents to the upper rim. H 13.3, D 15.5 cm, weight c. 5.1 kg.
Attributed to Iran, 12th - 13th C.