A Deccani bronze footed bowl, possibly Bijapur, India, 17th century

of rounded form with a slightly everted ridged rim, the flared foot with a double ridge at its base, the interior and exterior decorated with chased designs on a hatched ground, the interior with a central roundel with a stylised floral motif surrounded by five concentric bands of cursive calligraphy, the exterior with four angular cartouches of cursive calligraphy alternately with four quatrefoil designs enclosing a symmetrical floral pattern, the rim with shallow panels of interlacing split palmettes alternately with quatrefoil floral elements, the foot with triangular lappets enclosing trefoil motifs, twice incised with an owner's name

In fairly good overall condition, surface wear consistent with age and handling, 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

Inside, starting from the outer band:

Qur'an, Sura II (al-Baqarah), verse 255 (The Throne Verse) and XVII (al-Isra') verse 82; the Shahada; Qur'an, Sura CXII (al-Ikhlas) and a prayer including the names of the Prophet, Ali, Fatima and their sons.

Exterior: The Nada Ali quatrain.

Owner's name, twice:  "Fatima Baygum"

This bowl comes from a group of similarly decorated dishes and bowls. Related bowls include one in the Ashmolmean Museum, Oxford (see Zebrowski 1997, p. 339, no. 555, and p. 343, nos. 561 and 562).