An Arabic-Inscribed Bronze Circular Incense-Powder Box and Cover Ming Dynasty, 15th / 16th Century

of cylindrical section with a flat top and slightly concave base, the central circular panel on the cover cast in relief in Arabic with the words ‘Allah’ and ‘Muhammad, surrounded by a broad band of stylised interlocking floral scroll

Christie’s New York, 4th December 1982, lot 1709.

There is a shallow 1.5cm chip to the flange of the box. Other minor chips to the flanges, rim and base of the box and the cover. Other general surface wear and scratches. The patina is slightly darker in reality than in the catalogue photo.
"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."

This flat, cylindrical form is an alternative for incense powder along with the more common domed shape.  It is inscribed in sini script, a Chinese Islamic calligraphic form for the Arabic script, developed in the early Ming dynasty.  It can refer to any type of Chinese Islamic calligraphy, but is commonly used to refer to script with thick and tapered effects, such as on the current box.  It is used extensively in mosques in Eastern China, and to a lesser extent in Gansu, Ningxia and Shaanxi.  Early examples of the script date to the early Ming dynasty, notably the mihrab of the Niujue mosque in Beijing.  The mosque itself was founded in 996 during the Liao dynasty, but rebuilt in 1442 during the Zhengtong era.