Mamluke Revival Ewer and Basin

Status: Sold · Region: Islamic Antiques · Type: Islamic Art

A very rare complete 19th C. Mamluke revival ewer and basin set. The pieces are completely original to one another and complement each other well. The decoration work on both is of very fine quality with good detailing and a nice original antique patina on the silver and the brass inlays.

The Mamluk Revival Style: A Historical and Artistic Resurgence

The Mamluk Revival style emerged during the 19th and early 20th centuries as a decorative and architectural trend that sought to emulate the grandeur and artistic sophistication of the Mamluk Sultanate, which ruled Egypt, the Levant, and parts of the Arabian Peninsula from the 13th to the 16th centuries. This style became a hallmark of both functional objects and monumental architecture, blending traditional Islamic motifs with the craftsmanship of the modern era.

History and Origins of the Mamluk Revival

The Mamluk Sultanate was renowned for its rich artistic heritage, especially in metalwork, textiles, ceramics, and architecture. By the 19th century, the rise of Orientalism in Europe and the increasing Western interest in Islamic art spurred a resurgence of Mamluk-inspired designs. The Mamluk Revival style was championed by artisans and designers who aimed to recapture the intricate beauty of medieval Mamluk artistry while adapting it to contemporary tastes.

This revival coincided with a broader interest in historicism during the 19th century, as industrialized societies looked back to earlier periods for inspiration. The expansion of global trade and colonial encounters further exposed European audiences to Islamic art, encouraging the replication of Mamluk motifs in objects destined for both local and international markets.

See the pictures for some beautiful examples of Mamluke Revival lithographs in the book L'Art arabe d'apres les monuments du Kaire depuis le VIIe siecle jusqua la fin du XVIIIe par Prisse d'Avennes .

This is a rare chance to own a piece of similar quality to this illustrated in that reference work.