Morocco or Mali Wooden Qalamdan with Sliding Lid Islamic Writing Box

Description

This wooden qalamdan is an antique pen box attributed to Morocco or Mali and provisionally dated to the nineteenth century or earlier. Its elongated wooden body features carved geometric decoration and a removable sliding lid.

The interior consists of a long narrow compartment intended to accommodate writing reeds or qalams. The photographs show the box both open and closed with the lid also displayed separately. No pens or other writing accessories are included.

The exterior is decorated with repeated triangles and intersecting diagonal lines arranged in horizontal bands. These angular motifs create a rhythmic pattern across the sides. A further sequence of triangular carvings runs along the lid linking its decoration to that of the main body.

The wood has a dark brown surface with lighter areas visible along the incised decoration and worn edges. Variations in colour and texture make the carving particularly noticeable. The irregular contours and visible working marks contribute to the individual character of the piece.

This wooden qalamdan offers interest as both a writing accessory and an example of carved wooden craftsmanship. Its appeal lies in the combination of a practical storage compartment with decorative surfaces intended to be handled and seen. It would suit a collection focused on Islamic art African wooden objects or historical writing equipment.

The geographical attribution is Morocco or Mali. The proposed dating is nineteenth century or earlier; neither a more precise place of manufacture nor an exact production date is established.

Measurements and materials

• Length: 19.5 cm.

• Width: 4.5 cm.

• Height: 5.7 cm.

• Weight: 110 g.

• Material: carved wood with small visible metal fasteners.

• Decoration: incised geometric patterns.

• Closure: sliding wooden lid.