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Elaborately carved Antique Beggar's Bowl Kashkul

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A fine Kashkul carved from half of the giant nutshell of Coco-de-mer likely from Persian Qajar Dynasty circa 18-19th century. Kashkul is a container known as the beggar's bowl, carried by wandering Dervishes, member of the Sufi sect of Islam and used to collect elms. As the most emblematic accoutrement for the ascetics, Kashkul symbolizes the renouncement of all worldly possessions and subsisting on the generosity of humanity. The Kashkul on offer takes an organic shape of a boat with a sprout for pouring, taking the advantage of the natural form of the coco-de-mer. The surface was finely decorated with carvings. Scrolling floral motif on the top surface surrounds animal figures including a gazelle, a horse and a lion or leopard. The mid-body has a circumventing band with repeating Persian/Arabic inscription (undeciphered, likely a Koranic phrase). The bottom features a central figure donning a tall hat with flowing hair and beard, resting an axe on his shoulder. This depicts the story of prophet Ibrahim who destroyed the false idols people worshipped. Originally, the kashkul was attached to a chain, which is no longer present but the two pin holes on top remain.
This is a wonderful example of an Islamic work of art in its original fine condition. For similar examples in the same material dating to the similar period, see collection in MET (2019.300); V&A (876-1889) and Aga Khan Museum (AKM640).

More Information

Origin:	Iran
Period:	18th Century
Materials:	coco-de-mer
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Fine condition with mellow patina and minimal expected wear.
Creation Date:	18th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Persian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	639986

Dimensions

W.	13.5 in;	H.	6 in;	D.	6.5 in;
W.	34.29 cm;	H.	15.24 cm;	D.	16.51 cm;

Message from Seller:

Our collection ranges from Neolithic Art to 20th century collectible art and design. It spans 5000 thousand years of history and crosses many civilizations and cultures. Our aesthetic strongholds are Mid-century studio design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian Textile Art and Contemporary Aboriginal Art. The diversity is united behind our singular vision to seek for timeless beauty and driven purely by our passion