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$3,500
An impressive and unusually large Persian hand-hammered copper tray, richly decorated with repoussé and chased imagery inspired by the monumental reliefs and architectural heritage of ancient Persepolis. Measuring an exceptional 46 inches long × 29 inches wide × approximately 0.5 inch high, this substantial oval tray has tremendous decorative presence. Its monumental scale makes it particularly suitable as a centerpiece on a large coffee table or ottoman, while the intricate metalwork rewards close inspection as an individual work of decorative art. The entire surface has been worked by hand. At the center is a large elongated medallion depicting an elaborate Persian architectural composition, framed by dense ornamental decoration. The imagery recalls the columns, ceremonial architecture and stylized relief carving associated with Persepolis, the great ceremonial capital of the ancient Achaemenid Persian Empire. Surrounding the central medallion is a broad register divided into individual vertical panels. These contain repeated figural and ornamental motifs reminiscent of ancient Persian processional reliefs, alternating with stylized architectural and decorative elements. The composition creates a rhythmic procession around the entire tray. Additional chased and hammered ornament follows the perimeter, culminating in a finely worked outer border. The combination of raised repoussé decoration, chased detailing and contrasting areas of relatively smooth copper gives the surface considerable visual depth. The warm natural copper finish beautifully emphasizes the hand-worked relief. Subtle variations across the surface are inherent to its artisanal construction and contribute to its character rather than giving it the appearance of a mechanically produced decorative object. The subject is particularly interesting because it reflects the revival of ancient Persian imagery in later Iranian decorative arts. Rather than reproducing traditional Islamic arabesques exclusively, the maker looked back to the iconography and architecture of pre-Islamic Persia, particularly Persepolis, creating a decorative object that celebrates Persian cultural history. At 46 inches, this is considerably larger than the typical serving tray and can function architecturally within an interior. It would be striking centered on an oversized ottoman or low coffee table, displayed vertically as wall art, or incorporated into a custom tray-table base. Its warm copper surface works particularly well in interiors combining Persian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Orientalist, eclectic and contemporary design. A dramatic collector's piece combining impressive scale, intricate hand-worked metal decoration and imagery derived from one of the most important artistic monuments of ancient Persia.
