What is this?
This is a brass candlestick made during the Mamluk period in Egypt or Syria in the first half of the 14th century. It has inscriptions in three different Arabic scripts:
The largest band of writing, on the body of the base, is in Thuluth script. A smaller band in Naskh decorates the top rim, while the more angular Kufic script runs around the neck.
Calligraphy used as ornament is also a fundamental element of Islamic art. The Arabic inscription on the base of this candlestick reads, "Perpetual glory and prosperity and long life to you, O great master [of] long lived fame. Fame and glory and long life. Nobility everlasting."
I'm looking at what appears to be a large gold cover, it reminds me of a bell; what is it and what does it say?
This sounds like the Mamluk-period candle stick! It would have held a large candle in the socket at the top.
Wow! I never would have thought. Thank you.
The largest inscription, the one around the base translates to: "Perpetual glory and prosperity and long life to you, O great master [of] long lived fame. Fame and glory and long life. Nobility everlasting."
The inscription on the socket reads: "Glory and prosperity and and [sic] long life to you, O great master of long-lived fame."
Where is this from?
We believe it was made in either Egypt or Syria. Based on its inscription we know that this candlestick comes from the 14th century in the Mamluk sultanate.
At that time, the Mamluks controlled Egypt, the Syria-Palestine region, and much of Arabia. Major art production centers were in Egypt and Syria.
Thank you.