Ottoman Style Repoussé Silver Sugar Bowls with Lids
Hollowware (Sugar Bowls/Confectionary Jars) · Typically produced by regional silversmiths in Turkey, the Balkans, or Middle Eastern workshops specializing in traditional Ottoman 'Suleymaniye' style metalwork.
Pattern: Traditional Islamic Arabesque and Floral Scroll Pattern; commonly used for hand-wrought bazaar items throughout the 20th century.
Type
Hollowware (Sugar Bowls/Confectionary Jars)
Maker
Typically produced by regional silversmiths in Turkey, the Balkans, or Middle Eastern workshops specializing in traditional Ottoman 'Suleymaniye' style metalwork.
Material
Likely 800 or 900 Silver (continental standards common in the region); often characterized by a high silver content but lower than sterling .925.
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 10-14cm; estimated weight between 150-250 grams each depending on the thickness of the silver sheet used.
Description
A pair of highly decorative silver bowls featuring the classic lobed and scalloped aesthetic of Ottoman metalwork. The deep chasing creates a rich texture of light and shadow, featuring floral vines that wrap around the body and lid. These pieces are quintessential examples of Eastern hospitality-ware, intended for the serving of sweets alongside coffee.
Key Features
Dramatic scalloped rim, deep repoussé floral work, domed lids with bud finials, and a flared footed base.
Material & Composition
Likely 800 or 900 Silver (continental standards common in the region); often characterized by a high silver content but lower than sterling .925.
Finish & Decoration
Heavy repoussé and chased decoration featuring scrolling foliage, arabesque motifs, and a scalloped 'petaled' rim; hand-hammered with an antiqued/oxidized finish in the recessed areas to enhance contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped with Tuğra-inspired marks, '800', '900', or a local city assay mark on the bottom exterior or the rim of the lid.
Construction Details
Hand-raised from silver sheet with hand-chased decorative details; the lids are fitted with cast silver finials that are soldered to the domed top.
Functional Features
Removable domed lids to keep sugar cubes (Kıtlama) or Turkish delight (Lokum) fresh; wide scalloped rims for easy handling.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple cast silver ball or bud-style finials on the lids, designed for a fingertip grip; the bowls themselves are handle-less in the traditional footed style.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-chasing; the symmetry of the scalloped rim against the organic flow of the foliage indicates a skilled silversmith familiar with traditional bazaar techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Surface shows fine planishing marks inside the bowl indicative of hand-raising; hallmarks are expected on the base or the lid's seating rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Turkey (Istanbul or Anatolia); manufactured using traditional hand-tooling techniques in a workshop environment.
Era & Period
Late Ottoman Revival style (mid-20th century to contemporary); these designs evoke the 18th and 19th-century imperial aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980 based on the crispness of the repoussé work and the lack of deep historic patina.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Ikram' (hospitality) tradition in the Middle East and Mediterranean, where serving coffee and sweets is a ritualized social interaction.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the pieces show consistent luster with minor tarnish in the deep decorative recesses. No visible dents or structural damage to the delicate scalloped rims.
Value Estimate
$300 - $600 USD per pair, depending on the confirmed silver weight and the clarity of the maker's marks.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap only; use a soft silver cloth for polishing. Due to the deep chasing, avoid 'dip' cleaners which can remove the intentional oxidation that provides depth to the pattern.
Similar Pieces
Persian 'Qajar' style silver bowls (often more figurative) or European Rococo sugar casters (which are taller and perforated).
Interesting Facts
In Ottoman culture, sugar was historically a luxury; these vessels were designed to showcase the wealth of the host through both the precious material and the sweetness of the contents.