Ca. 10th-11th century AD. A bronze bowl characterized by a deep body, rounded base, and high sides. The bowl's interior is smooth and unadorned, while its exterior is finely decorated. The bowl's exterior features an engraved band of small circles with a dot around the rim, and the main register is an intercrossing of diagonal lines, interspersed with small circles, to create mesmerizing design. The base features a large six-pointed star within the circle and a dot band. The purpose of this bowl remains elusive, perhaps it was used in religious ceremonies, or as a decorative item for wealthy patrons, or even as a practical vessel for everyday use. Islamic metalwork is renowned for its intricate designs, superb craftsmanship, and ornamental motifs that often draw upon Islamic calligraphy and geometry. Metalworkers employed various techniques such as engraving, inlay, and casting to create a diverse range of objects, including bowls, ewers, lamps, and candlesticks.Size: L:125mm / W:255mm ; 1.4kgProvenance: Private London collection of Early Islamic Art - M.A.; formerly acquired on the UK art market since the 1980s.