Ottoman Shifa bowl, Konya,

Shifa bowl with fine calligraphy, Konya, Ottoman circa 1900 or earlier,

Ø: approx. 18 cm, brass, good condition

Magical bowls or Shifa bowls did not offer continuous talismanic protection, but were only used when needed. A liquid, e.g., water, was poured into the bowl, and the Koranic verses and magical diagrams imparted healing and protective properties to the liquid medium. The sick person then drank the liquid in the hope of relief and recovery.