This item is a hand-engraved Persian Ghalamzani metal plate (or tray), a traditional Iranian craft of metal engraving and embossing that is heavily associated with cities like Isfahan
Design & Key Features
Artistic Technique: This piece showcases Ghalamzani (toreutics). The design is hand-hammered and chiseled from the front and back using specialized punches to produce a detailed, relief-like textured surface.
Central Figural Scene: The narrative scene depicts multiple human figures dressed in traditional historical Persian/Qajar-era costumes harvesting fruit from a prominent central tree. One figure utilizes a ladder, while others gather the fruit below or carry tools like a pickaxe.
Ornate Borders: The piece is enclosed by a highly dense, repetitive decorative rim containing classical Persian floral patterns and bird motifs (Gol-o-Morgh).
Composition: The dish features a tri-metal or bi-metal appearance, typical of pieces made from brass or copper, which are then selectively tinned (tinned copper) or silver-plated to create a striking color contrast between the golden and silver areas.
Function & Value
Such plates were traditionally handcrafted during the 19th-century Qajar dynasty up to the mid-20th century. While they can technically function as serving trays, they are primarily collected as decorative wall plaques or converted into ornate tabletop displays.