A cast iron alms bowl, North India, Sultanate period, 15th-16th century

of shallow squat form narrowing towards the inverted mouth, a register of cursive calligraphy chiseled in low relief around the shoulder between borders of a single line, traces of tinning on the calligraphy

pitting and patination, 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."

The inscriptions, difficult to read, are probably prayers and pions phrases.
The tremendous weight of this bowl, combined with the presence of prayers, suggest that it was probably placed in a religious monument such as a shrine, for devotees to give alms for the upkeep of the place of their devotion.