Western Asiatic Medical Manuscript Page

Of rounded, conical form and bearing a spiralling pseudo-Aramaic incantation to the bowl interior. 260 grams, 15.5 cm wide



From a collection of pottery formed in the 1970-1980s.

Aramaic incantation bowls are particular to the Sassanian period and have been found in the regions of modern Iraq. These simple ceramic bowls, also known as magic bowls, each contain an Aramaic inscription, written in ink, which spirals from the centre. The bowls seem to have played an important part in domestic life. For example, during excavation in Nippur in 1889, one or more incantation bowls were found in each house together with domestic artefacts, most often in doorways or under floorboards in the corner of rooms. The bowls are predominantly apotropaic, and the inscriptions tend to protect their owners from misfortunes such as child-birth, illness and evil spirits.

With four-banded hoop and large circular bezel also made from coiled wire, insect(?) motif applied to the surface. 17.62 grams, 32.83 mm overall, 17.95 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)



Ex old English collection. London art market, 1980s.

With bulbous body, narrow neck and broad trumpet-shaped mouth with central filler hole; short conical spout to the shoulder, ribbed strap handle, concentric rings to the lower body and base. 187 grams, 97 mm



From the important family collection of the late M.N., pre-1992.