Antique Persian-Region Brass Qalamdan Traveling Inkwell & Pen Case | قلمدان برنجی کهن، منسوب به ایران، همراه با دوات سفری و جای قلم

Antique Persian-Region Brass Qalamdan Traveling Inkwell & Pen Case

A finely aged brass traveling writing set, traditionally known as a qalamdan or divit, designed to hold writing pens together with an attached inkwell. This example features delicate punched and engraved border decoration, small calligraphic-style symbols near the top, and a raised shell-form relief on the inkwell cover.

Objects of this type were used across Persian, Ottoman, and broader Middle Eastern writing cultures by scribes, calligraphers, scholars, merchants, and educated travelers. The long compartment would have held reed pens or writing implements, while the attached inkwell allowed for portable use.

The piece has a warm aged brass surface with visible patina, oxidation, scratches, and handling wear consistent with age and prior use. The small symbols or cartouche near the top appear decorative or calligraphic in style, though they are not fully legible from the available images.

Details

• Object type: Traveling inkwell and pen case / qalamdan / divit
• Region: Persian-region / Ottoman-Persianate Middle Eastern cultural sphere
• Material: Brass
• Decoration: Shell-form inkwell cover, punched borders, engraved details, small calligraphic-style symbols
• Size: Approx. 8 x 2 x 1 1/2 in.
• Period: Likely late 19th to early 20th century
• Condition: Antique condition with patina, oxidation, surface scratches, small marks, and age-related wear throughout

Attribution Note

This object was acquired from auction as an Antique Persian Qalamdan Brass Traveling Inkwell and Pen. Because similar brass traveling writing sets were produced and used across Persian, Ottoman, and broader Islamic regions, it is described here conservatively as a Persian-region / Ottoman-Persianate qalamdan or divit.

A distinctive antique writing object suitable for collectors of Persian art, Islamic metalwork, calligraphy tools, scholarly objects, and refined desk decor.