Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a hand-hammered and engraved tinned copper oval lidded box, likely made for holding jewelry, tobacco, spices, or hammam essentials. It features an Arabic/Ottoman inscription naming an owner or maker ('Habib Hafez') along with the Islamic Hijri year date '1197' (corresponding to 1782–1783 CE), accompanied by scrolling foliate roundels and a workshop punch mark on the base.
Story
Handcrafted in the Ottoman Empire in AH 1197 (1782/83 CE), this lidded copper box bears the engraved name of its owner, Habib Hafez. Objects like this were personal treasures, carrying prized spices or jewelry through generations.
Maker / Origin
Crafted by an Ottoman coppersmith (kazancı) or metal engraver. Coppersmithing was an intensely organized guild craft throughout Ottoman centers such as Istanbul, Aleppo, and Damascus, where masters hammered, engraved, and periodically retinned utilitarian and luxury wares.
Condition & Value
Displays authentic historic wear, oxidation, and thinning/loss of the original tinning consistent with age. Edges show expected minor hammering irregularities and surface patina. Preserving original patina without abrasive polishing maintains maximum collector value.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.