Antique 18-19th c Islamic Indo Persian Divination Bowl Magic Bowl Medicinal Bowl

Antique, 18th-19th century, Indo Persian, Islamic rare Tinned Brass Divination bowl, also called Magic Bowl or Medicinal bowl. Made of turned and hand finished cast brass of typical rounded form ,with averted rim, pierced with a small hole, allowing a suspension cord to be fitted. The center of the bowl with tapering central boss amongst Arabic writing. The inner surface decorated with talismanic and Koranic symbols in Arabic writings, within three Mihrab and six paisley (boteh) form panels, the outer surface also engraved with talismanic and Koranic symbols in Arabic script, the rim is engraved with further script. 
 
Magic bowls were used in Islamic world in the treatments of all kinds of illnesses, including poisoning. 
 
Water placed in such bowls was believed to take on curative aspects after having come into contact with the various talismanic and Koranic symbols and verses engraved on the bowl. 

 
PROVENANCE: Ex Important Canadian private collection of Islamic Art. 
 

 MEASUREMENTS: 
 
Diameter: 14.3 cm (5.63 inches) 
 
Height: 4 cm (1.57 inches) 

  
WEIGHT: 192 grams 

 
CONDITION: In good condition considering its age, showing the age and usage, the tin plating slightly worn, nice age patina.