Persian Style Repoussé Silver Finger Bowl
Hollowware - Finger Bowl / Nut Dish · Likely Armenian or Persian (Isfahan) silversmith; often produced in regional workshops known for high-relief chasing. Specific maker unavailable due to image blur on the central medallion.
Pattern: Traditional Floral and Foliate Repoussé Pattern
Type
Hollowware - Finger Bowl / Nut Dish
Maker
Likely Armenian or Persian (Isfahan) silversmith; often produced in regional workshops known for high-relief chasing. Specific maker unavailable due to image blur on the central medallion.
Material
Likely 84 (87.5% Russian Standard) or 900 silver. These regional pieces are rarely sterling (.925) and often use lower fineness typical of Mid-East and Central Asian traditions.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 10-12 cm (4-5 inches); estimated weight: 80-120 grams. Standard small size for confectionery or finger rinsing.
Description
An ornate silver finger bowl featuring exceptionally dense repoussé work. The piece displays a sophisticated arrangement of floral scrolls and stylized petals radiating from a central medallion toward a scalloped, shell-like rim. The light play on the high-relief textures creates a brilliant visual impact characteristic of Isfahan silverwork.
Key Features
Scalloped rim, dense floral chasing, circular central brand/signature medallion, and high-walled bowl construction.
Material & Composition
Likely 84 (87.5% Russian Standard) or 900 silver. These regional pieces are rarely sterling (.925) and often use lower fineness typical of Mid-East and Central Asian traditions.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chasing featuring scrolling floral vines, scales, and geometric borders. Scalloped rim with chasing. Central medallion frequently reserved for a signature or armorial crest.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinct marks in the central interior medallion. Likely includes a numeric purity mark (84 or 900) and a maker's cartouche in Arabic or Cyrillic script.
Construction Details
Hand-raised from a flat silver sheet, then heavily worked from the reverse (repoussé) and finished from the front (chasing). Evidence of hammer marks on the interior surface.
Functional Features
Deep well with a flared, scalloped rim for easy handling. Non-slip decorative texture provided by the relief work.
Handle & Grip Details
None; this is a vessel designed to be cupped in the palm or held by the reinforced rim.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality handwork. The depth of the relief suggests significant labor-intensive chasing. The symmetry of the scallops indicates a skilled silversmith's hand.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic 'crinkled' texture on the interior from hand-chasing; hallmark placement in the center is traditional for this region. Patina appears consistent with mid-grade silver alloys.
Origin & Manufacturing
Middle East, likely Iran (Isfahan) or Turkey, following Persian silversmithing traditions emphasizing dense floral ornamentation.
Era & Period
20th Century Revival (c. 1920-1970) of traditional Isfahan or Qajar decorative styles.
Age Estimate
c. 1940-1960. The crispness of the scalloped edge suggests a mid-20th-century production rather than true 19th-century antique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the luxury dining traditions of the Middle East, where silver vessels were a primary indicator of household status and hospitality.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Surface shows light tarnish in the crevices of the repoussé, which is desirable for highlighting the design. No visible cracks or structural repairs; rim remains symmetrical.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on the confirmed silver purity and whether the maker's signature is a known master.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a very soft brush and mild soapy water to reach crevices; avoid heavy polishing compounds that can wear down the high-relief chasing. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Persian-style bowls (more refined, .925 sterling); Indian Kutch silver bowls (denser 'coriander' pattern); Burmese silver bowls (higher relief animals).
Interesting Facts
Isfahan silversmiths are world-renowned for 'Ghalam-Zani' (metal engraving). These bowls were often part of larger hospitality sets used for serving nuts or sweets to guests.