The most interesting story… Middle Eastern or Ottoman 19th century traveling pen case with attached inkwell. In a time when oral tradition was the way that most people shared information, they had no need for the written word. Reading and writing was the work of a specialist, the scribe. The scribe traveled from town to town with the qalamdan hung from their belt… the long section held reed pens, the hinged inkwell held it in place. The scribe was part of elite circles, reading and writing sacred texts, historical and legal records, documents and agreements. 

A heavy piece, a subtle but beautiful engraved design, burnished color, patina and textural wear.

We are intrigued by the qalamdam and have found a new use… the long section stores incense sticks, the inkwell holds burning sticks. Both inkwell and body have sturdy working hinges.

A beautiful and rich object at the altar, a real storyteller for your collection.

As discovered.

SIZE

9 3/4” L X 1 1/2” W ~ Inkwell approximately 1 1/2” X 2”