$2,850.00
Antique 19th C. Ottoman Turkish Brass Inkwell Qalamdan with Arabic Calligraphy Writing.
An antique 19th century brass decorated Islamic Turkish Qalamdan.
An antique Turkish Brass Inkwell Qalamdan with Arabic calligraphy writing is a remarkable and historically significant piece of art and craftsmanship. These exquisite inkwells, also known as "qalamdan" in Persian, are highly collectible and revered for their intricate designs and functional elegance.
This is a collectible brass pen case with an attached inkwell.
The elegant form of the pen case features rounded finials and a hinged mechanism that enables it to be opened for the insertion of writing tools. The lid of the case is adorned with a pointed finial, while the inkwell, attached to the side of the case, features a cushion-shaped body with a hinged cover decorated with a shell.
Pen cases such as this one were an essential part of the Ottoman Empire's writing culture. They served as both a practical and decorative tool, providing a convenient and stylish way to store and transport writing materials.
The Qalamdan pen case is in solid brass, the entire body of the case is covered with dense chiseled and chased decorations of scrolls and Arabic calligraphy writing creating a visually stunning effect.
It consists of an inkwell and a pen compartment of typical rectangular form with an interior cavity to store a reed pen.
The pen holder with faceted rounded ends and a hinged lid attached to a squat, square section.
Attached to the body is an inkwell with a hinged cover and cut corners, decorated with incised bands and engraved Moorish designs with a shell style cover.
Dimensions: 7.25" inches long x 1.5" inches high x 2" inches deep.
Great collector Islamic art object.
Asia Turkey 19th century.
Materials:
Design and Structure:
The qalamdan features a rectangular shape with rounded corners, reminiscent of Ottoman and Persian artistic traditions. Its proportions are balanced, making it both visually pleasing and practical.
The exterior of the inkwell is meticulously decorated with ornate Arabic calligraphy. The calligraphy is typically engraved or embossed into the brass surface, showcasing passages from the Quran, poetic verses, or other meaningful and aesthetic scripts. The calligraphy is often framed by intricate floral and geometric patterns, showcasing the Islamic artistic tradition's love for symmetry and complexity.
The lid of the inkwell is hinged, allowing it to be opened and closed easily. It often features a decorative finial, which can take the form of a floral motif, a dome, or a crescent moon, further emphasizing the Islamic and Turkish cultural symbols.
The interior of the inkwell is divided into compartments to hold various writing tools, including quills, pens. These compartments are designed to keep the tools organized and prevent ink spillage.
Historical Significance:
Antique Turkish Brass Inkwell Qalamdan with Arabic calligraphy writing often date back to the Ottoman Empire and the broader Islamic world. They were essential accessories for scholars, scribes, and individuals who valued the art of calligraphy and the written word.
These inkwells were not just utilitarian items but also symbols of cultural refinement, education, and the beauty of the Arabic script.
The calligraphy on the qalamdan often carries spiritual and philosophical significance, with verses from the Quran or poetic lines conveying wisdom and enlightenment.
In summary, an antique Turkish Brass Inkwell Qalamdan with Arabic calligraphy writing is a splendid example of Islamic artistry and craftsmanship. Its intricate design, ornate calligraphy, and historical importance make it a valuable and aesthetically captivating collector's item, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Ottoman Empire and the broader Islamic world.