Three plates and bowls with Arabic inscriptions, associated with the occult and used for purposes of magic, and for ceremonies, healing, and protection. Iran and surrounding regions (Ottoman Empire), [19th century / early 20th century].
Copper; zinc-coated copper; pewter; cast and engraved.
1. Plate made of zinc-coated copper, with upraised rims and with engraved Arabic numbers and texts (verses from the Qur'an), and with various decorations, including two figures (on bottom) and the 12 signs of the Zodiac (on the rim). Square tables engraved on bottom with letters and numerals in Arabic. Diameter: 20.5 cm.
2. Plate made of pewter, with bulge in middle and indentation on bottom (to ease handling), covered almost entirely with Arabic texts (most likely verses from the Qur'an), some enclosed within round medallions. Diameter: 16 cm. Height: 5.5 cm.
3. Copper saucer, with engraved Arabic letters and numerals, and additional (unidentified) symbols. Diameter: 8 cm. Fractures to rim.