Translation help needed: Arabic cartouche

[Atlantia]

Originally Posted by ALEX

Gene, if you'd not mention 'bronze', I'd be almost certain it is silver. It's unbelievable to see this kind of quality and detail on bronze. This is one of the best I've seen as well. I also like bronze and brass, and especially damascened: 3-metal "Mamluk Revival" types. I realize it's off the scope of this forum (so I'll PM you personally), but I'd like to thank you for posting the great closeups of such a rare and truly beautiful item.

Alex, wow thanks mate!
Its really nice of you to say so.
I know I do very occasionally stray from the arms & armour field and I do appreciate everyones 'patience' when I start threads about the occasional bowl or um... tray.

But I must admit that I secretly hope that my fellow forumites share my love of this sort of thing!
Problem is its just such a huge area! I've got beautiful metalwork from right across asia (although I try to concentrate on India it never seems to go that way), and can never seem to find somewhere to really 'chat' about it and swap knowledge with other collectors.

The tray in question has been a source of mixed emotions for me really! I kind of assumed from the sheer quality and complexity of the chiseled designs that it was rather older than it is.
I also thought Arabic was read left to right, so was confused when I tried to translate the date and realised that from left to right it was reading 1312.
Still, even if it is 1895, its still antique, and the quality does at least speak for itself. I'm still hoping to get some more information about it if anyone can help.
Indian metalwork is more my area, but I couldn't resist this when I had a good look at it.
I would be very interested to see some of your stuff, especially the 3 metal pieces.
Any info on my tray would also be greatfully received.

Best Wishes
Gene