Ottoman Style Tughra-Marked Repoussé Silver Nut Dish
Hollowware (Small Nut Dish/Coaster) · Ottoman or Turkish Regional Silversmith; often produced in silversmithing hubs like Istanbul or Erzincan. These pieces usually carry a Tughra (Sultan's monogram) or a '900' purity mark.
Pattern: Traditional Ottoman Floral and Geometric Repoussé; featuring scrolling vines, foliate motifs, and a central medallion.
Type
Hollowware (Small Nut Dish/Coaster)
Maker
Ottoman or Turkish Regional Silversmith; often produced in silversmithing hubs like Istanbul or Erzincan. These pieces usually carry a Tughra (Sultan's monogram) or a '900' purity mark.
Material
Low to standard grade Silver (likely .800 or .900 purity), commonly referred to as Turkish Silver or Continental Silver. Does not appear to be plated.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 10-12 cm (4-5 inches); estimated weight: 40-70 grams. It is a shallow, individual-sized serving piece.
Description
This charming Turkish silver dish displays the rich decorative vocabulary of Ottoman metalwork. Defined by its energetic repoussé work, the piece features a lobed periphery and a deeply recessed floor. The central quatrefoil motif acts as a focal point, surrounded by concentric bands of scrolling patterns that capture and reflect light brilliantly.
Key Features
Scalloped-edge 'lobed' design; dense floral repoussé; central quatrefoil medallion; traditional Middle Eastern silversmithing aesthetic.
Material & Composition
Low to standard grade Silver (likely .800 or .900 purity), commonly referred to as Turkish Silver or Continental Silver. Does not appear to be plated.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chasing with a scalloped, lobed rim. The design features a central circular medallion with four foliate clover-like elements and a wide border of repeating floral motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the underside or rim; would typically include a Tughra (calligraphic monogram) or a Sah (assay mark), often accompanied by localized numerical stamps like '900'.
Construction Details
Hand-hammered and die-pressed. The intricate detail suggests the use of a pitch-filled bowl for hand-chasing or a metal die for repeating edge patterns.
Functional Features
Scalloped rim for easy grip; shallow basin for snacks, coins, or desk items; stable flat base.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; this is a handle-less dish, though the scalloped rim provides a textured tactile grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Intermediate hand-finishing over a basic pressed form. The symmetry indicates some mechanical assistance in the shaping, but the chasing shows signs of hand-tooling.
Authentication Indicators
The style of chasing is consistent with Turkish workshops. One should look for the 'Sah' or 'Tughra' mark on the base to confirm age; absence of marks often suggests a contemporary or local handicraft origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Turkey (likely Istanbul or Anatolian region). Known for a long tradition of hammer-decoration and 'Savat' (niello) or high-relief floral work.
Era & Period
Late Ottoman Revival / Mid-20th Century Middle Eastern Silversmithing (c. 1940-1970).
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The clarity of the relief and the specific scalloping suggest a post-WWII souvenir or household item produced for the domestic and tourist markets.
Cultural Significance
Dishes like these were hallmarks of Turkish hospitality, used to serve dried fruits, nuts, or Turkish delight to guests as part of an elaborate coffee service.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the piece shows light tarnish in the deep crevices of the chasing, which enhances the visual depth (shading). No visible dents or structural cracks.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD depending on the confirmed weight and the presence of official silver hallmarks.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush to reach crevices. Avoid abrasive polishes which can wear down the relief. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
Egyptian '900' silver dishes (which often use more geometric/Islamic star patterns) or Persian/Iranian 'Verna' silver (which usually features more figurative bird-and-flower scenes).
Interesting Facts
The central design is inspired by the 'Rumi' and 'Hatayi' motifs found in 16th-century Ottoman Iznik tiles and carpets.