Antiquities & Fine Art

Antiquities & Fine Art

Lot 99: AN INDO-PERSIAN GOLD-INLAID STEEL QALAMDAN.

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Start price: £600

Estimated price: £700 - £800

Buyer's Premium: 22%

An Indo-Persian steel qalamdan or pen box of elongated octagonal form. The box features a hinged, domed lid and is constructed from wrought iron or steel. The exterior surfaces are decorated using the koftgari technique, with gold-inlaid floral and foliate scrollwork densely covering the body and lid. The bevelled sides of the lid contain several cartouches with calligraphic inscriptions in Arabic or Persian script. A small silver-toned metal stud is located on the front edge of the body. 

Approximately 5.3 x 25.5 x 7cm (hxlxw)


Condition report:

The pen box exhibits signs of age and significant surface oxidation. Rust is visible across the steel body and lid, particularly in areas where the gold inlay has worn or where moisture has affected the metal. The gold koftgari decoration shows minor losses and rubbing, especially along the edges and high points. The hinges remain functional.