Cup; Persia, 19th century.

Cup; Persia, 19th century.
Bronze.
It shows traces of silver plating.
Measurements: 22 x 20 cm.
Persian cup of the 19th century, made of bronze, which stands as an exceptional representation of the Islamic craftsmanship of the time. Its harmonious form, with a broad base that tapers towards the stem and then opens into a generous flared cavity, denotes an attention to functional and aesthetic design. The finely rippled top rim provides an elegant and delicate finish.
The surface of the cup is profusely decorated with a series of intricate motifs and precisely engraved human figures. These depictions, arranged in separate panels, evoke narrative scenes and possibly courtly or mythological moments, a typical feature of Persian art. The color inlays, though subtle, highlight the details and give it a vibrant and sophisticated dimension. The stem and base are also ornamented with geometric and vegetal patterns, classic elements of the Islamic decorative repertoire, where symmetry and repetition play a fundamental role.
These types of objects were relevant not only because of their functional and ceremonial use, but also because they embodied the artistic and spiritual ideals of the period. The combination of narrative art and geometric ornamentation on metal reflects the Persian quest for beauty and order, while serving as symbols of status and prestige. These types of pieces, moreover, show the technical skill of the craftsmen in handling bronze and creating minute details, making them outstanding examples of the rich artistic tradition of the Middle East.