Description
This rare Armenian parcel-gilt and enamelled silver incense container, dating to the 18th century, reflects the exquisite craftsmanship of both Ottoman and Armenian artistic traditions. With its octagonal form standing elegantly on eight arched legs, this container exemplifies the sacred and decorative artistry that defined the period.
The piece’s beauty is heightened by its primitive, unrefined execution, lending it an authentic charm that captures the hand of the artisan.
Design and Craftsmanship:
The incense container’s plates are adorned with intricate bead-like and serrated chain silver wires, embodying traditional Armenian silversmithing techniques.
The arched legs are delicately decorated with vegetal motifs and overturned crosses, framed by twin heart shapes.
This combination of crosses, hearts, and floral motifs is strikingly evocative of Armenian Christian iconography, where religious and symbolic elements blend seamlessly with decorative artistry.
A distinguishing feature of this container is its crown-like lid, which sets it apart from similar examples in the Kalfayan Collection.
While other pieces exhibit simpler lid designs, this container’s lid is defined by an elaborate border of crown-shaped motifs, adding a layer of regal symbolism and enhancing its visual complexity.
This unique characteristic amplifies the spiritual significance of the container, elevating it beyond mere functionality into a sacred artefact of remarkable artistic value.
At the pinnacle of the container sits a red or cherry amber finial, carved in the form of equal segments resembling a peeled fruit, a hallmark of Ottoman design.
The crown motif surrounding the lid reinforces the reverence and craftsmanship invested in this exceptional piece, making it an unparalleled example within its category.
Construction:
Each plate of the octagonal body, from the arched base to the top, is carefully adorned with soldered filigree wires, creating patterns that reflect religious iconography.
The soldered serrated wires form patterns across the silver surface, bordered by additional parallels of filigree wires and bead-like motifs. This delicate yet primitive design adds depth and texture, making each segment of the container stand out as a work of art in its own right.
The centre of each plate features a turquoise cross set within a blue heart, bordered by an overturned winged heart motif.
This design recalls the Orthodox Sacred Heart of Jesus, symbolising divine love and compassion.
The repeated presence of large hearts and crosses reinforces the spiritual essence of the container, making it not only a functional object but also a testament to faith and devotion.
Enamel Work:
The enamelled surfaces are adorned with both champlevé enamel and opaque enamel.
The cobalt blue enamel, notably transparent, is characteristic of the champlevé technique, where recesses in the silver surface are filled with enamel and fired.
In contrast, the turquoise, yellow, light green and pistachio green enamels are opaque, providing vibrant, solid coloration that enhances the overall design.
This combination of transparent and opaque enamelling adds a layered richness to the piece, with subtle variations in light and texture amplifying the intricate detailing.
Slight irregularities in the enamel work, far from detracting from the piece, enhance its charm and emphasize the artisanal nature of its construction.
Interior and Dimensions:
The interior of the container is gilded, providing a striking contrast to the richly decorated exterior.
This gilding not only enhances the visual appeal but also serves a practical purpose in protecting the silver surface from tarnishing.
This incense container stands as a rare and valuable relic, offering insight into the artistic and spiritual heritage of 18th-century Armenia and the Ottoman Empire, the item rich symbolism, primitive craftsmanship, and distinctive crown-like lid design make it an extraordinary addition to any collection of religious or decorative art.
