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A Mamluk Revival Cairo Ware brass bowl and a pair of decorative curved swords with scabbards, likely originating from Egypt or Syria during the late 19th or early 20th century. The large decorative bowl is fashioned from a copper alloy with a rounded body, constricted neck, and flared rim. The exterior is hand-hammered and chased with multiple horizontal registers of decoration. The central band features Thuluth script calligraphy in rectangular panels, alternating with circular medallions of complex geometric and arabesque interlacing. Secondary bands show repetitive floral and knot motifs, with a continuous geometric interlocking loop pattern around the neck. Traces of a white metal wash are present in the recessed areas of the decoration. The underside of the bowl shows hand-incised owner’s or inventory marks. The pair of curved steel blades feature light engraved foliate and scrolling patterns along the back edge. The wooden hilts and matching scabbards are decorated with extensive mother-of-pearl and wire inlay in geometric designs. The swords are finished with hooked pommels, brass S-curved cross-guards with ball terminals, and brass scabbard furniture including lockets, suspension bands, and chapes.
Condition report:
The brass bowl exhibits overall surface oxidation, tarnishing, and minor pitting throughout. There is visible wear to the base revealing a copper-toned under-metal. One sword blade shows a significant patch of surface rust and oxidation near the tip, while the second blade has scattered light spotting. The wooden components of the swords and scabbards show some lifting and missing pieces of mother-of-pearl inlay. The brass fittings are tarnished and show minor surface indentations.
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