Vintage Brass Dallah (Arabic Coffee Pot) with Incised Geometric Patterns
Ceremonial Vessel / Decorative Pot (Dallah) · Yellow Brass (Non-Precious Metal)
Purity: Non-gold; Brass alloy consisting primarily of copper and zinc. Lacks any karat markings or fineness stamps.
Type
Ceremonial Vessel / Decorative Pot (Dallah)
Purity
Non-gold; Brass alloy consisting primarily of copper and zinc. Lacks any karat markings or fineness stamps.
Gold Type
Yellow Brass (Non-Precious Metal)
Weight
350 to 500 grams
Description
This item is a decorative Dallah, a traditional Arabic coffee pot, crafted from brass rather than solid gold. It features a bulbous body, a slender waisted neck, and a distinctive long, curved spout. The surface is adorned with hand-etched tribal patterns, including hatch marks and bands. While it mimics the golden hue of high-karat gold used in royal Middle Eastern service, its construction and oxidation confirm it as a base metal decorative piece.
Key Features
Characteristic crescent-shaped finial, hinge-top lid, bird-like spout tip, and cast handle with thumb-rest.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow brass with an aged patina; features a semi-matte finish with visible oxidation and tarnish in recessed engraved areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible gold hallmarks; potentially features a maker's mark or country of origin (e.g., 'Made in India' or 'Pakistan') stamped on the bottom of the foot ring.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 7 to 8 inches; Body Diameter: 3.5 inches; small hand-held scale.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features hand-chiselled or stamped geometric and linear engravings on the body, lid, and neck.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged lid with a pointed finial top; simple pin-and-barrel hinge mechanism attached to the handle.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a cast C-shaped ornamental handle and a curved spout with a stylized bird-head or 'swan' aperture.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced cast body with hand-finished engraving; visible solder joints at the spout and handle attachment points.
Authentication Indicators
RED FLAGS: Visible oxidation/tarnish (gold does not tarnish), uneven 'brassy' color, lack of hallmark stamps, and lightweight cast construction inconsistent with solid gold vessels.
Origin & Maker
Likely Middle Eastern or South Asian (India/Pakistan) production for the souvenir or home decor market.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Folk Art / Tourist Export Era)
Age Estimate
circa 1970-1990
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gahwa' (coffee) culture of the Bedouin, symbolizing generosity and social gathering in the Arab world.
Condition Notes
Good; frequent surface tarnish and minor scratches consistent with age. Visible green verdigris (copper oxidation) where the spout meets the body and inside the hinge.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD (Decorative/Collectible value only; negligible melt value as it contains no precious metal).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild brass polish (like Brasso) to restore shine; avoid abrasive pads; dry thoroughly to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
Solid 22K gold ceremonial miniatures, silver-plated copper Dallahs, and copper 'Ibrik' Turkish coffee pots.
Interesting Facts
The Dallah is a symbol of hospitality across the Arabian Peninsula and is so culturally significant that it appears on several Middle Eastern coins, such as the UAE 1 Dirham.