Bidspirit auction | A PAIR OF PERSIAN ENGRAVED

A PAIR OF PERSIAN ENGRAVED HAND-HAMMERED SILVER VASES, QAJAR PERIOD, 19TH CENTURY - Of baluster form with slightly flared rims and rounded shoulders, each vessel is richly worked in repoussé and fine engraving, the bodies divided into large cartouches reserved against a densely textured ground. The principal panels depict animated avian and floral compositions, with songbirds perched amid scrolling vines and blossoming rosettes, rendered in a distinctly Persian ornamental vocabulary characteristic of the Qajar aesthetic. The reverse panels continue the theme with dynamic arrangements of birds in flight, interspersed with stylized foliage and palmettes, all executed with lively line work and subtle chasing. The surrounding fields are filled with intricate vegetal ornament, creating a strong contrast between the polished cartouches and the darker, stippled ground. A continuous band of repeating lobed motifs encircles the upper register below the rim, while the lower section is bordered with a refined frieze of scrolling foliage and geometric ornament. The overall composition reflects the Qajar period’s synthesis of Safavid decorative traditions with a heightened emphasis on naturalistic detail and rhythmic surface patterning. The bases are plain and uninscribed aside from a small central punch mark, likely a workshop or assay indication, now partially worn and difficult to fully decipher. The interiors show expected signs of use and age, with visible hammering marks consistent with hand-raised construction. Weight 38.5 o., (1092 g.) Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: H: 7 1/8 in., (18.1 cm.) D: 5 3/8 in., (13.7 cm.) Condition: Overall good antique condition. Surface wear, minor dents, and scattered abrasions are consistent with age and handling. Areas of tarnish and oxidation throughout, particularly in recessed elements. Bases with oxidation and wear, with marks indistinct.