Syrian Silver & Gold Box

Engraved Silver Box with Parcel Gilding

Most Syrian and Egyptian boxes of this form are of brass inlaid with copper and silver. But this example is of solid silver inlaid with thin gold strips.

The hinged lid and all the sides are densely engraved with scrolling arabesques, geometric lattice-work borders and cartouches filled with Arabic script with gold highlights. The script is of Koranic invocations and the word ‘Allah’ appears repeatedly.

The lid is held down by means of a latch which still functions.

Unusually, this example is lined inside with wood – probably local ceder wood – and the wood panel inside the lid is inlaid with mother-of-pearl in Islamic-inspired geometric shapes.

The box has a wonderful patina; the contours have softened with time and use. The box is without dents, repairs or splits.

UK art market