This magnificent copper tray radiates with intricate artistry, where geometry, calligraphy, and symbolism converge into harmony. At its heart lies a central medallion, layered with concentric bands of Arabic inscriptions, each engraved with rhythmic precision. The medallion extends outward into a hexagonal star framework, a hallmark of Mamluk design, anchoring the composition with both symmetry and spiritual resonance.

A striking feature is the repetition of two stylized birds, engraved in mirrored pairs across the surface. Their wings curve into flowing arabesque scrolls, merging seamlessly with the calligraphic bands. These are not mere ornaments, but symbolic guardians of the design: signifying watchfulness, harmony, and the duality of earthly and spiritual realms. The mirrored placement intensifies the rhythm of the tray, suggesting eternal balance and continuity.

Around the medallion, bold, elongated calligraphy radiates like beams of light, while smaller cartouches nestle further inscriptions into the surrounding framework. Encircling all is a continuous outer band of script bordered by arabesque foliage, uniting text and ornament into a protective enclosure. The rim, subtly raised and decorated, strengthens this sense of sacred safeguarding.

Calligraphic Inscriptions

At the heart of the tray is the exalted formula praising the Sultan:

"عز لمولانا السلطان الملك الناصر العابد العادل القائد المنصور المجاهد المحارب الغازي الحاكم عز نصره"

Transliteration:
ʿIzz li-mawlānā al-Sulṭān al-Malik al-Nāṣir al-ʿĀbid al-ʿĀdil al-Qāʾid al-Manṣūr al-Mujāhid al-Muḥārib al-Ghāzī al-Ḥākim, ʿizza naṣruhu.

Translation:
“Glory to our lord, the Sultan, the Victorious King, the Devout, the Just, the Commander, the Triumphant, the Fighter in God’s cause, the Warrior, the Conqueror, the Ruler, may his victory be exalted.”

Artistic Details

• Mamluk Star (نجمة مملوكية – najma mamlūkīya): The hexagonal star at the center symbolizes cosmic order and divine authority, a recurring royal emblem in Mamluk metalwork.
• Mirrored Birds: Gracefully curving into the arabesques, they embody vigilance and spiritual duality, animating the inscriptions with living presence.
• Six Circles of Division: The tray’s layout is divided into six concentric circles, each containing geometric patterns and calligraphy, emphasizing repetition, balance, and completeness.
• Geometric & Arabesque Unity: Angular star-geometry blends with vegetal arabesques, reflecting the Mamluk mastery of joining rigidity with fluidity.

Interpretation

This tray is both a royal proclamation and a devotional canvas. The central star proclaims the Sultan’s authority, while the surrounding inscriptions glorify him as just, devout, and divinely aided. The mirrored birds echo the protective and harmonious spirit of creation, reinforcing the cosmic balance that underpins rulership. The sixfold geometric order, flowing script, and arabesque motifs transform this vessel into a masterpiece of Mamluk artistry, where geometry, faith, and symbolism coexist in eternal harmony.