A MONUMENTAL QAJAR GOLD-DAMASCENED STEEL BOTTLE
PROPERTY FROM AN IMPORTANT EUROPEAN PRIVATE COLLECTION
Qajar Iran, second half 19th century

Of large pyriform shape, resting on a ringed stem on a gently splayed circular foot, rising to a tall tapering neck with an everted circular rim, surmounted by a dome-like stopper with spiky conical finial, the steel surface covered with chiselled floral bouquets, vegetal meanders, and foliate designs in cusped medallions offset by gold damascening, the gold-damascened decoration and further fretwork and knotwork bands set against a densely engraved ground of scrolling lotus sprays, elegant floral bloom, and thick foliage, 61.5cm high.