The Missing Culture

A nineteenth century tombac piece used to carry specifically Zamzam (the holy water brought from Kaaba). I have especially liked its lid. While passing by, doesn't how tombac is made ring any bells? Gold, sulphuric acid... No? One wonders, though, why such a dangerous technique was used. It cost many lives. Height: 37.5 cm. Estimated value: $ 65,000

Censers have always been a favorite object of temples, no religion excepted. Burning incense in them is part of various ceremonies. In addition to religious rituals, incense and censers are widely used during meditation or, how can we say, similar mental exercises. Now, I am not saying instead of using a 1 dollar wooden piece you should use this Ottoman tombac censer of 18th century. With leave figures at the base and baklava motifs at the lid (repousse technique), it is destined to take you to a spiritual voyage, especially after you see the price tag. Height: 25.5 cm. Estimated value: $ 30,000

A tombac horse headpiece that remained from one of the leading Turkmen tribes, the Kayis. Remarkably well preserved tombac. In addition to protection, probably it was used to frighten the opponents and their horses; 17th century. Height: 74.5 cm. Estimated value: $ 325,000

Curved long body and a short hilt, a beautiful example of the time. Both of its sides are embossed with motifs made by repousse technique. Its scabbard is embroidered with an emblem of Mizika-i Humayun (official brass band of the Ottoman Palace), crescents and various emblems placed between flowers and geometric patterns. We see oysters at the top of the scabbard and its tombac is in excellent condition. Estimated value: $ 55,000