Persian Tinned Copper Sahan — Engraved Lidded Serving Dish, circa 1880s

Grand in scale and extraordinary in craft — this hand-engraved Persian sahan was made to be filled, carried, and admired. Every surface speaks the visual language of the Qajar dynasty: dense arabesques, palmette borders, and the quiet confidence of metal worked by a master hand.

OBJECT DETAILS An ideal piece for collectors of Islamic and Middle Eastern antiques, interior designers sourcing objects of rare cultural weight, or for film and TV prop buyers seeking period-accurate Persian or Ottoman set dressing.

A large hand-engraved tinned copper lidded serving dish (sahan), comprising a shallow circular bowl with wide flanged rim and a domed cover surmounted by a turned knop finial. The exterior of both cover and rim are densely engraved throughout with arabesque scrollwork, palmette borders, interlaced vine patterns and meander bands — the quality of the engraving fine and consistent across the entire surface. Notably, the domed cover and its finial are formed from a single piece of metal, turned on the wheel as one continuous form — a hallmark of traditional Persian and Ottoman master craftsmanship, and a clear distinction from later or lesser quality production where finials are fitted separately. The interior of the cover retains the original concentric lathe-turning marks consistent with hand manufacture. Persian or Ottoman, in the Qajar tradition, circa late 19th to early 20th century. No maker's mark visible.

DIMENSIONS D 35cm × H 16cm with lid (D 13.8" × H 6.3")

CONDITION REPORT In good antique condition, consistent with age and use. Rich silver-grey patina throughout the engraved exterior. Interior of the bowl with natural age-related oxidation and light surface marks consistent with use. Localised area of surface corrosion to the interior rim junction of the base — visible in photographs, confined to the surface only, no structural compromise. No dents. Engraving crisp and intact throughout. Photographs form part of this description. Please review all images carefully as they document the piece's condition in full detail.

CURATOR'S NOTE Selected for the exceptional quality and density of its engraving, its generous scale, and the rare integrity of its one-piece construction. A piece that works as a centrepiece on a dining table, a statement on a sideboard, or as a significant prop in any period Middle Eastern or Ottoman interior setting.

FULL FAQ:

What is the condition of this piece? This piece is in good antique condition, consistent with age and use. Rich silver-grey patina throughout the engraved exterior. Interior of the bowl with natural age-related oxidation and light surface marks consistent with use. Localised area of surface corrosion to the interior rim junction of the base — visible in photographs, confined to the surface only, no structural compromise. No dents. Engraving crisp and intact throughout. Photographs form part of this description — please review all images carefully.

What are the exact dimensions? D 35cm × H 16cm with lid (D 13.8" × H 6.3")

Where does this piece come from? Persian or Ottoman, in the Qajar tradition, circa late 19th to early 20th century. No maker's mark visible.

Do you ship internationally? Yes — Fontaine London ships worldwide. Prices shown include duties and taxes for your country (DDP — Delivered Duty Paid), so there are no surprise charges on delivery. Shipping cost is calculated at checkout.

Is this piece suitable for film or TV prop use? Yes — this piece is period-accurate for Persian and Ottoman interiors and is available for prop hire enquiries. Please contact us directly to discuss.

What is your returns policy? We offer a 14-day return policy for items that do not match their description. As all pieces are one-of-a-kind vintage items, we ask buyers to review all photographs and the condition report carefully before purchasing. Photographs form part of the item description.