Egyptian Aluminum Cooking Pot with Factory Markings
Hollowware (Kitchenware) · Egyptian General Authority for Military Production/Helwan Metal Goods (Factory 360/99). Identification based on the Arabic logo featuring the gear and industry symbols common in Egyptian state-owned factories.
Pattern: Standard Industrial Domestic Kitchenware, Mid-20th Century Utility Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Kitchenware)
Maker
Egyptian General Authority for Military Production/Helwan Metal Goods (Factory 360/99). Identification based on the Arabic logo featuring the gear and industry symbols common in Egyptian state-owned factories.
Material
Aluminum alloy (Non-silver). The item lacks silver hallmarks (lion, crown, or 925) and shows the characteristic light-grey oxidation and circular brushing (turning) marks of industrial aluminum.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 20-24cm based on comparison with the smartphone in the background. Weight would be significantly lighter than silver, approximately 400-800g depending on thickness.
Description
An industrial-grade aluminum cooking vessel of Egyptian origin. While appearing metallic, the item is not silver. It is a classic example of Egyptian domestic utilitarian ware, characterized by its durability and functional design. The base features a distinctive stamped medallion with Arabic text providing manufacturing registration details.
Key Features
Stamped Arabic central medallion on base; concentric spinning marks; lack of precious metal tarnish (shows grey 'frosting' instead of black sulfide).
Material & Composition
Aluminum alloy (Non-silver). The item lacks silver hallmarks (lion, crown, or 925) and shows the characteristic light-grey oxidation and circular brushing (turning) marks of industrial aluminum.
Finish & Decoration
Spun/Brushed finish. The surface shows concentric turning marks from the manufacturing process. There are no decorative engravings; the only features are the stamped factory marks on the base.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Arabic industrial stamps including the factory logo, the word 'Musajala' (Registered), and numeric indicators for size or batch (the digit '5' is visible in a circle). These are industrial quality control marks, not silver assay hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-spun aluminum. The circular striations indicate the piece was formed on a lathe from a flat aluminum disc. The base is flat with a rolled lip.
Functional Features
Heavy-duty thermal base for even heat distribution. Designed for stovetop cooking or food storage.
Handle & Grip Details
None visible in the underside view; typically these pots feature riveted aluminum or bakelite handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. The stamping is deep but slightly off-center, typical of rapid factory production. The turning is consistent with high-output mechanical lathes.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of silver assay marks (like the Three-Tower or Lotus marks for Egypt) confirms this is not silver. The Arabic text confirms industrial regional origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Egypt, likely Cairo or Helwan. Produced in a state-owned industrial complex focusing on consumer metal goods.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-Revolution Egyptian (1950s-1980s). This period saw a massive expansion in domestic industrial production in Egypt.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980. The style of the logo and the Arabic typography are consistent with Egyptian industrial labels of the Nasser and Sadat eras.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Second Industrialization' of Egypt, post-1952, aiming for domestic self-sufficiency in household goods.
Condition Notes
Good. Shows significant surface scratching and 'pot-marks' from use on burner grates. No structural warping, but heavy evidence of mechanical cleaning (scouring).
Value Estimate
$10 - $30 USD. This is a functional utility item rather than a collectible precious metal artifact.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver polish. Clean with warm soapy water. Avoid dishwasher use as harsh detergents will darken and pit the aluminum surface.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Middle Eastern 'Bukhara' or silver-plated copper vessels, but distinguished by its thickness, color, and specific industrial stamps.
Interesting Facts
Many of these items were produced by factories that shifted between military production (ordnance) and civilian goods (cookware) during the expansion of the Egyptian Arab Republic's industrial sector.