Vintage Middle Eastern Style Brass Dallah (Coffee Pot) Miniature Deco
Decorative Vessel / Coffee Pot (Dallah Style) · Yellow Brass Alloy
Purity: Non-gold; Brass/Bronze composition based on surface oxidation and patina
Type
Decorative Vessel / Coffee Pot (Dallah Style)
Purity
Non-gold; Brass/Bronze composition based on surface oxidation and patina
Gold Type
Yellow Brass Alloy
Weight
250g - 400g (Estimated solid cast metal weight)
Description
A traditional Dallah-style coffee pot used for serving Arabic coffee. This is a decorative miniature version featuring a curved spout, a high-domed hinged lid with a finial, and a bulbous body decorated with hand-chasing and engraving.
Key Features
Curved 'beak' spout, integrated hinge lid, hand-etched engraving, and heavy cast metal construction
Color & Finish
Dull golden-brown with heavy greenish-black patina in crevices; hand-tooled matte finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks; typical of locally artisan-made brassware from the MENA region
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 6-7 inches; Width: 5 inches (spout to handle)
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features hand-etched geometric and floral tribal motifs
Clasp & Closure
Hinged lid with a pointed finial top
Chain & Links
Not applicable; cast handle with decorative grip notches
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-chased and cast; artisan quality with visible file marks and slightly irregular symmetry characteristic of manual bench work.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: Green oxidation and brown spotting are diagnostic of brass/copper alloys, not gold. Lack of purity stamps and coarse casting texture further confirm base metal.
Origin & Maker
Likely Middle Eastern (North Africa, Levant, or Arabian Peninsula); Unbranded artisan work
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Circa 1950-1980) Tourist/Export Era
Age Estimate
40-60 years old based on patina and wear patterns
Cultural Significance
Represents the Bedouin tradition of welcome and the ritual of the Gahwa (coffee) ceremony.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; significant surface oxidation and tarnishing consistent with brass, light scratching, and some red residue (possibly old wax or polish)
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 (Decorative value only; no precious metal melt value)
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dedicated brass polish (like Brasso) and a soft cloth; avoid moisture to prevent further verdigris (green corrosion).
Similar Items
Copper Ewer, Brass Turkish Cezve, or Bronze Pitcher. Often mistaken for gold due to the bright yellow color when polished.
Interesting Facts
The Dallah is a symbol of hospitality across the Arabian Peninsula and often appears on national currencies in the Middle East.