Persian hand-hammered talismanic or cosmetic mirror Antique Islamic object. It is a circular, hand-hammered talismanic or cosmetic mirror, likely of Persian or Ottoman origin from the 19th to early 20th century. The exterior features a scalloped, foliate-edged frame decorated with intricate calligraphic inscriptions—likely Quranic verses or prayers—arranged in concentric bands around a central medallion. These inscriptions suggest the mirror served a protective, talismanic purpose, intended to ward off the "Evil Eye" or bring blessings to the owner. Diameter: 5 inches $100-150
PROVENANCE: Present lot was acquired by Bennett Schiff (1920-2014), a member of the U.S. Foreign Service who served as press attaché in Nicosia, Cyprus, and Tehran from 1962 until 1967.He moved to Washington, DC,in 1967 to work as a consultant to the Peace Corps, the Office of Economic Opportunity, the Ford Foundation, the Inter-American Foundation, and the Department of Health, Education and Welfare.
