A Safavid Tinned Copper Ewer, Persia, 17th century

of cylindrical form with flattened sides, resting on a raised splayed foot, the serpentine spout terminating in a dragon-head mouth and arched handle with opening to top, the body engraved with a central flowerhead medallion on each side comprising a central roundel of scrolling arabesques, a band containing an inscription and animal or plant motifs in each petal, within a larger border of repeating arabesques, the front featuring a centralised medallion with inscription between two arabesques and the back with multiple medallions containing animals

In overall good condition, with some patination on the surface and minor scratches consistent with age, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

inscriptions

On one side:  A Persian quatrain.

On the other side:  Benedictory Arabic verses.

'To its owner, [May there be] happiness and well-being
 And long-life, as long as the dove coos,
 And perpetual glory, with no decline,
 And prosperity until resurrection day'

For similar verses, see A.S. Melikian-Chirvani, Islamic Metalwork from the Iranian World 8-18^th centuries, London, 1982, p.255.

Under the spout, most probably maker's name as:  'The slave of the family of Muhammad, Mahmud'

A later owner's name on the handle:  'Its owner Haji 'Abd al-'Aziz'

A similar, bronze, example is published in: A.S. Melikian, Le Chant du Monde: L'art de l'Iran Safavide, 1501-1736, p.348, no.112.