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Estimated to date from between 1944 and 1950, this distinctive miniature Iranian bowl combines traditional Persian decorative metalwork with the historical appeal of Pahlavi-era coinage. Its restored appearance reveals the beautiful contrast between the warm, rose-gold tones of the copper body and the bright silver centrepiece.
A Brilliant Copper Finish with Intricate Persian Engraving
The copper body displays a warm, luminous rose-gold appearance, with polished surfaces that reflect the light beautifully. The restoration has revealed the intricate decorative work covering the exterior, allowing the fine details of the traditional Persian engraving, known as Ghalamzani, to stand out more clearly.
The decoration features elaborate floral motifs, interlocking ornamental panels, delicate stippling and intricate geometric patterns. The combination of finely worked details and the reflective copper surface gives the bowl an elegant appearance, showcasing the skill and artistry associated with traditional Iranian metalwork.
The Silver 5 Rial Coin Centrepiece
Set into the centre of the bowl is a 26 mm Iranian 5 Rial coin, described as .600-fineness silver, dating from the Pahlavi period. Its bright appearance creates a striking contrast with the warm copper surrounding it.
The obverse interior features the traditional Persian Lion and Sun emblem (Shir-o-Khorshid), depicting a lion holding a curved sword beneath the sun's rays, accompanied by Persian inscriptions identifying the denomination.
The reverse base displays the Pahlavi imperial crown framed by a decorative wreath of branches, centred by the Persian numeral ۵ representing five rials, a traditional numeral character that visually resembles a heart motif. The artisan has uniquely mounted the coin inverted, showcasing the crown positioned towards the lower edge of the base wreath. The restored surface makes the coin's distinctive imagery easier to appreciate.
Workshop Stamp / Maker's Mark
The bowl also bears a workshop stamp, an additional detail of interest to collectors that may assist in researching its maker, workshop or origin. Although the stamp has not yet been conclusively identified, it provides a further point of reference for investigating the piece's history and craftsmanship.
Authentic Vintage Patina and Material Continuity
Although the bowl has been carefully cleaned to reveal its attractive rose-gold lustre, accompanying reference photographs document its original, tarnished condition before treatment. These photographs show the substantial, layered oxidation that had accumulated across the surface over time, including deep copper-brown tones, dark tarnishing and subtle greenish traces.
This variation in surface colour and oxidation provides useful visual evidence of the bowl's previous condition and the interaction of its materials with the environment over time. However, patina alone cannot conclusively establish an exact age or prove a specific manufacturing date. Together with the bowl's decorative details, central coin and workshop stamp, the original-condition photographs provide valuable documentation for collectors interested in its history and authenticity.
A Striking Miniature Decorative Collectible
This is a miniature decorative bowl, measuring just 70 mm in diameter and 20 mm in height, with a total weight of 52 grams. Despite its compact size, it makes a distinctive impression through its polished copper finish, detailed Persian ornamentation and historic Iranian coin centrepiece.
The restoration has brought renewed brightness to the surface, revealing details that were less apparent beneath the previous tarnish and oxidation. The result is a visually appealing piece that combines traditional craftsmanship, historical symbolism and the distinctive character of vintage Iranian decorative arts.
Its miniature dimensions make it particularly suitable for display in a cabinet, on a desk or as part of a collection of Persian antiques, Iranian memorabilia or vintage metalwork. It can also serve as an unusual conversation piece for collectors who appreciate historic coinage and decorative metalwork.
Technical Specifications
Origin: Iran (Persia), attributed
Era: Pahlavi Dynasty, estimated circa 1944–1950
Centrepiece Coin: Iranian 5 Rial coin, 26 mm, described as .600 silver
Bowl Material: Copper, cleaned and polished
Decorative Technique: Fine hand-chiselled Ghalamzani engraving
Workshop Mark: Stamp present; identification unconfirmed
Weight: 52 grams
Diameter: 70 mm
Height: 20 mm
Size: Miniature decorative bowl
Condition Documentation: Reference photographs showing the original tarnished surface before treatment
