An early Safavid tinned-copper basin, Persia, Early 16th century

of deep rounded form with a slightly everted rim, the incised decoration comprising a set of inscriptive cartouches on the rim, a calligraphic band under the rim, the body with decorative arabesques alternately filled with vegetal motifs, a geometric pattern and animals, one with an inscription, the roundels in between with foliate designs  


 

In general good condition, some rubbing to surface, particularly base on external edges, some light scratches to surface consistent with use, some slight erosion to interior of basin, 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

Around the neck: The call to God to bless ‘The Fourteen Innocents’

On the rim:  Qur’an, chapter XI (Hud), part of verse 56 and the nada ‘ali quatrain.

In a cartouche on the body, maker’s (?) name as:
gholam-e shah-e velayat qasem shah-e hoseyn aqa
‘Slave of the King of trusteeship (i.e. Imam ‘Ali] Qasim Shah [son of] Husayn Aqa’

On the body, names of two owners Ma’sum’ali’ and Muhammad Shafi’ are stamped.