Pen Box (Qalamdan) with Inscriptions 1500 - 1525

This 16th-century pen box, or "qalamdan," was crafted by the renowned artist Hasan Ramadan Shahi. The intricately engraved brass box is adorned with elaborate calligraphy and intricate patterns. It is a testament to the skill and artistry of Islamic metalwork during this period. The inscriptions, likely verses from the Quran, showcase the importance of religion and knowledge in Islamic culture. This beautiful object, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the everyday life and artistic traditions of 16th-century Islamic society.