An antique Orientalist copper and brass hearth cauldron, made for the export trade, 19th Century
This is a large antique copper cauldron with an intricate Arabic inscription on the upper rim. The inscription translates to a dedication to “the Emir of Mecca,” suggesting a connection to a royal figure or leader of great historical importance. The craftsmanship is exceptional, with visible hammering and detailing that indicate it was hand-forged, likely by skilled artisans. Based on the style of the writing and the size of the cauldron, it may originate from Persia (modern-day Iran) or the broader Islamic world during a significant historical period. The cauldron appears to have been used for ceremonial or royal purposes, as its size and design suggest a role beyond ordinary use. • Condition: The cauldron is in excellent condition for its age, with no significant structural damage or corrosion. The copper has developed a rich patina, consistent with an artifact of this age. The inscription remains legible and well-preserved. The handles are intact, and the overall structure is stable.
Final Estimate • Circumference: 7 feet (84 inches). • Diameter: 26.75 inches. • Height: 14 inches. • Estimated Weight: Approximately 91 lbs.
Secondhand Store
Yes
Hi Keisha,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This copper hearth cauldron was made in the late 19th Century as part of the Orientalist movement, which was a cultural, artistic, and intellectual trend that emerged in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. It focused on the depiction and interpretation of the "Orient," which broadly referred to regions of the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia as imagined by the West. This movement encompassed literature, art, architecture, and scholarship and was deeply intertwined with European colonial and imperial ambitions. It likely was intended to be bought as souvenirs rather than for utilitarian use and from its condition, I can tell that it was probably not used much if at all.
I can read several different Near- and Middle-Eastern languages and I can't make out the script in the couple of photos you've attached. That said, in many cases, articles such as this that were made for tourists or the export trade, inscriptions are often meaningless.
Today, these make wonderful fireplace "baskets" for storing kindling. Related ones that come to auction usually sell for between $500-700 and I've seen others offered for sale by retailers for $800-1,200.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique Orientalist copper and brass hearth cauldron
made for the export trade, 19th Century
Of circular section and broad, tapering conical form, with two brass handles and seam; the rim inscribed intelligibly with a script.
14 inches tall; 26-3/4 inches diameter
CONDITION: Unused
PROVENANCE: Acquired in a second-hand store
$500-700*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
