A monumental Mamluk tinned copper basin, Egypt or Syria, late 15th century- early 16th century

of sheet metal, hammered and engraved, the body comprising a deep belly and inward sloping walls rising to a short collar and flattened ridge at the rim, the sides engraved with a broad central register with alternating circular medallions and oblong cartouches filled with strapwork and naskh inscriptions, minor bands of trefoils and strapwork above and below

surface weathering and patination, dents and bumps consistent with usage and age, some wear and tear and old repairs to the lower body, 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:

Part of an Arabic quatrain.

Owner's name: 'Hajj Mustafa ...-bashi'

This basin is a fine example of a standard type of metalwork produced in Cairo and Damascus on the eve of the Ottoman conquest.  The use of copper as a base material, disguised under a thin layer of tin, is a feature of late Mamluk manufacturing necessitated by the shortage of precious metals and other exigencies accompanying the decline of the dynasty. In spite of these straitened circumstances, the skill of the Mamluk metalworkers remained undiminished, as testified here by the refined and intricate patterns that adorn the surface of the vessel. For related examples of late Mamluk tinned copper wares in public collections, see Atil 1981, pp.106-7, no.38, and O'Kane 2006, pp.172-173, no.151.