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Pen Box (Qalamdan) with Inscriptions

Calligrapher Hasan Ramadan Shahi
early 16th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 462
This pen box is decorated with bold thuluth calligraphic inscriptions and interlaced floral arabesques. The particular floral ornament, as well as the epigraphic style, is typical of Iranian metalwork dating to the late 15th and early 16th century.


The inscriptions contain prayers to Ali, the son-in-law and cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, as well as blessings to the owner, and the name of the engraver (Hasan Ramadan Shahi).


The interior of the box is divided into compartments to hold reed pen(s), the inkwell, and a sandpot. The high esteem of the calligrapher and his art is demonstrated by the lavish nature of this carefully crafted object, which would have both safeguarded and displayed his tools.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Pen Box (Qalamdan) with Inscriptions
  • Calligrapher: Hasan Ramadan Shahi
  • Date: early 16th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran
  • Medium: Brass; chased, engraved, and inlaid with silver
  • Dimensions: Box: L. 13 1/2 in. (34.3 cm)
    H. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm)
    D. 4 in. (10.2 cm)
    Spoon: L. 4 1/2in. (11.4cm)
    H. 3/8 in. (1 cm)
    D. 9/16 in (1.4 cm)
    Wt. 0.14 oz. (4 g)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1975
  • Object Number: 1975.350.1a–c
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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