Ca. 17th-19th century AD. A tinned copper basin with a hemispherical bowl sitting upon a graceful ring foot and boasts a broad opening. The interior is smooth and undecorated, but the exterior is adorned with two parallel registers of decoration that speak to the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world. The upper band of decoration features calligraphy, a form of art that is deeply intertwined with Islamic culture and religion. The Arabic script is beautifully rendered, with intricate flourishes and delicate lines that demonstrate the skill and mastery of the artist. The text may be a verse from the Quran, a prayer, or a quote from a famous Islamic scholar or poet. The lower register is equally stunning, featuring a repeating motif of running hares against an arabesque background. The hare is a symbol that appears frequently in Islamic art and culture, and its meaning is layered and complex. In some traditions, the hare represents swiftness and agility, while in others it is a symbol of fertility and prosperity.Size: L:90mm / W:215mm ; 885gProvenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly in a collection of A. Kotlar, since the 1970s.