This is a large, twin hinged Islamic silver metal compact case with a filigree lid & niello decoration to both the interior & exterior, almost certainly of Iraqi or Iranian origin, & dating to around the 1930's / 40's.

Although there is an artists signature in niello, there are, as tends to be the norm, no silver hallmarks, so the case is being offered as solid white metal.

The compact is circular in form, with a highly ornate & detailed filigree lid & a niello decorated base.

The lid is opened via an unsprung catch & thumb lift, to reveal an ornate interior, with a beautifully engraved border & a domed, niello decorated powder compartment, which hinges open via a catch, to reveal the powder well & mirrored lid.

The front of the case has an extremely ornate filigree scroll design with a central, vacant cartouche, whilst the rear of the case is decorated, in niello, with a river scene, depicting a palm tree to the fore, a sail boat (a dhow or felucca ?) on the river, & a camel with passenger on the far shore.

The interior has an engraved border, with a scrolling foliate design, whilst the lid of the powder compartment is decorated in niello, & depicts a palm tree to the fore, a boat on the river, & buildings, including a Mosque, on the far shore.

The rear of the case bears a small Arabic signature, in niello, underneath the main decoration.

Condition is Excellent, with no dents or damage, good hinges & a good, strong catch.

The case measures approx 2 7/8" in diameter (approx 7.3cm), & weighs 105.8 g, 3.73 oz, or 3.40 Troy.

Overall, a very scarce & simply stunning compact, of the highest quality, & in Fine condition.