Modern Egyptian Al-Kenezi Sterling Silver Hollowware Base
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Tray, or Drinking Vessel base) · Al-Kenezi (as indicated in Arabic script), a contemporary Egyptian silversmithing firm known for producing traditional and modern sterling silver objects for domestic and international markets.
Pattern: Plain/Minimalist Contemporary; lacks traditional repoussé, focusing on the quality of the finish and the clarity of the central hallmarks.
Type
Hollowware (likely a Bowl, Tray, or Drinking Vessel base)
Maker
Al-Kenezi (as indicated in Arabic script), a contemporary Egyptian silversmithing firm known for producing traditional and modern sterling silver objects for domestic and international markets.
Material
Sterling Silver (.900 or .800 fineness likely, common for Egyptian standards, though some Al-Kenezi pieces are .925). The weight is marked as '129' grams on the stamp.
Dimensions
Weight: 129 grams (as stamped). Diameter: Estimated 10-15 cm based on visual proportions. The piece is a medium-sized individual serving dish or a small bowl base.
Description
This is the underside of an Egyptian sterling silver hollowware piece by the maker Al-Kenezi. The item showcases a clean, industrial aesthetic typical of modern Egyptian production. The prominent center-stamp acts both as an authentication mark and a design element, proudly displaying the gram weight and the maker's name. The high-polish finish reflects light in a way that suggests high-purity silver, while the substantial weight of 129 grams for its size indicates a solid, durable construction.
Key Features
Distinctive 'Al-Kenezi' Arabic brand stamp, explicit 129g weight marking, and Egyptian assay marks integrated into the central medallion.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.900 or .800 fineness likely, common for Egyptian standards, though some Al-Kenezi pieces are .925). The weight is marked as '129' grams on the stamp.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with circular lathe markings visible on the underside. Undecorated except for the large, stylized central cartouche containing the maker's logo and specifications.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A large circular relief stamp featuring 'Al-Kenezi' in Arabic script. It includes the number '129' (weight in grams), the purity mark, and a small cat/lotus or regional office mark common to Egyptian hallmarking systems.
Construction Details
Machine-spun or die-struck. The perfectly circular concentric lines on the bottom indicate it was finished on a lathe or spun over a chuck. Modern manufacturing technique.
Functional Features
Rounded foot rim for stability. The flat central underside is designed to rest flush on a surface or to be the base of a welded functional top.
Handle & Grip Details
None visible in this underside view; usually indicative of a simple bowl or a small tray.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays high-quality industrial craftsmanship. The stamp is struck with high pressure, creating a sharp relief. The spinning is uniform, suggesting a skilled operator and modern machinery.
Authentication Indicators
The Arabic script matches known Al-Kenezi branding. The integrated gram-weight stamp is a standard feature of modern Middle Eastern silver to facilitate resale by weight. No indicators of silver plate are visible.
Origin & Manufacturing
Egypt. Specifically manufactured in a modern workshop, likely in Cairo, following Egyptian silver purity standards and assay requirements.
Era & Period
Modern/Post-Modern (Late 20th to Early 21st Century). The typography of the 'Al-Kenezi' logo is modernist and crisp, reflecting industrial-age design standards.
Age Estimate
c. 1980 - Present. The condition of the stamp and the style of the logo suggest a piece made within the last 40 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern evolution of Cairo's historic silversmithing district, 'Khan el-Khalili,' moving from handmade artisanal goods to branded, standardized luxury products.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface scratches (swirl marks) consistent with handling and light polishing. No signs of denting, repairs, or heavy oxidation.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD, primarily driven by the silver weight (129g) plus a collector's premium for the maker and item type.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. For tarnish, use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive scrubbers which will ruin the mirror finish of the spun silver.
Similar Pieces
Pieces by other Egyptian makers like 'Ibrahim' or international brands like Christofle, though Al-Kenezi is distinguished by its specific Arabic logo and modern font choice.
Interesting Facts
In Egyptian culture, and many parts of the Middle East, silver is often bought as an investment or 'store of value.' Consequently, makers often stamp the weight in grams directly into the metal so the owner knows the melt value instantly.