Ottoman or Middle Eastern Repoussé Mixed-Metal Chess Plate
Decorative Object / Games Tray · Unknown regional artisan silversmith; characteristic of workshop production in metalworking centers such as Istanbul, Cairo, or Damascus. Such pieces are usually unsigned by individual makers but follow strict guild traditions.
Pattern: Traditional Folk/Royal Islamic Motif; non-production line piece likely commissioned or sold through a bazaar/souq.
Type
Decorative Object / Games Tray
Maker
Unknown regional artisan silversmith; characteristic of workshop production in metalworking centers such as Istanbul, Cairo, or Damascus. Such pieces are usually unsigned by individual makers but follow strict guild traditions.
Material
Mixed metals; likely a low-grade silver alloy (800 or 900 silver) or silver-plated copper/brass. Features inlays or overlays of copper and potentially red brass to create the bi-color checkerboard effect.
Dimensions
Estimated 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) in diameter. Weight likely between 800g and 1.2kg depending on the gauge of the metal and the presence of a reinforcement base.
Description
A striking example of regional metalcraft, this circular tray transforms a standard service vessel into a functional game board. The outer rim is densely decorated with nature motifs, while the center features an inset checkerboard of alternating silver-toned and copper-toned metals. Flanking the board are two stylized figures, adding a narrative element to the geometric precision of the grid.
Key Features
Mixed-metal bi-color checkerboard; pomegranates/pinecone repoussé rim; hand-chased figural elements; scalloped 'pie crust' outer edge.
Material & Composition
Mixed metals; likely a low-grade silver alloy (800 or 900 silver) or silver-plated copper/brass. Features inlays or overlays of copper and potentially red brass to create the bi-color checkerboard effect.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chasing. The border features pinecones or pomegranates (symbols of fertility/abundance). The center features an 8x8 checkerboard with hand-engraved scrolls and flanking figures in traditional dress (possibly Safavid or Qajar style silhouettes).
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the provided image. If present, likely to be small Arabic 'Tughra' or town marks often found on the reverse side or edge profile.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and hand-hammered. The central grid is likely a separate plate soldered onto the main tray body. Extensive punch-work and chasing visible in the textured background.
Functional Features
Flat central well for game play; wide raised rim designed for ease of carrying or as a decorative frame when hung.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; this is a rimmed tray without separate handles.
Craftsmanship Details
High-level artisanal labor. The chasing shows a confident hand, though the symmetry of the central grid is charmingly 'organic' (non-industrial), confirming its hand-made nature.
Authentication Indicators
The irregularity of the checkerboard squares and the depth of the repoussé indicate hand-tooling rather than machine-stamping. The wear patterns are consistent with soft alloy metal handling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Middle East or North Africa, possibly Turkey, Egypt, or Persia. These regions have centuries-old traditions of 'Tombak' and mixed-metal repoussé work.
Era & Period
Late 19th to Mid-20th Century Orientalist style; heavily influenced by earlier Islamic metalworking traditions using the 'Mamluk Revival' or 'Qajar' aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1950. The oxidation patterns and style suggest a mid-century decorative piece intended for the travel trade or local upscale markets.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of leisure and art in Islamic culture, where geometric patterns (the board) and organic forms (the border) are harmonized in daily objects.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Displays heavy surface tarnish and oxidation (sulfide deposits). Significant wear to the high points of the repoussé. Evidence of verdigris (green corrosion) suggesting a high copper content base metal.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD. Value is driven by decorative appeal and metal weight rather than specific maker pedigree.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with mild soap to remove salts. Use a non-abrasive silver cream. Avoid 'dips' which can strip the thin silver layering and ruin the intentional copper contrast.
Similar Pieces
Cairo-ware (inlaid brass/copper); Damascus silver-inlay work. Distinct from Western chess boards by its metallurgical composition and purely decorative border.
Interesting Facts
Trays like this were often part of 'Chai' (tea) sets where games like Backgammon or Chess were played in social coffee houses from Istanbul to Tehran.