AN ENGRAVED BRASS PEN CASE AND INKWELL
Anatolia or Central Asia, 12th - 13th century

Of elongated triangular shape, with a rounded tip and a rectangular head enhanced with an engraved dome-like finial surmounted by a circular hoop, the top open and hollow to accommodate pens, above the opening a circular wheel-like lid covering the inkwell, the other three sides engraved with tapering calligraphic cartouches set against hatched grounds and spiraling scrolls, the corners enhanced with intricate knotwork and vegetal arabesques, 24.5cm long.