A fine inscribed brass bowl, West Persia, early 16th century

of deep rounded form with flat everted rim, the incised decoration comprising a central band of six roundels containing a floral design and six oval cartouches containing inscribed calligraphy alternating and interlacing on a hatched ground, the base is decorated with a thick band of foliate and floral designs on a hatched background leading to a central roundel containing a cental six-petalled rosette surrounded by foliage, a central roundel of foliate and floral designs decorates the inside of the bowl 

In good overall condition, patination consistent with age, slight rubbing to base, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

inscriptions

A couplet from a ghazal of Hafiz followed by:

li-sahibihi al-sa'ada wa al-salama

'May there be Happiness and Well-being to its owner'.

The present example can be compared to another slightly larger bowl in a private collection in the United Kingdom, which was exhibited in Le Chant du Monde, L'Art de L'Iran Safavide, 1501-1736, Musée du Louvre, Paris, 2007 (see Melikian-Chirvani 2007, pp.168-9).