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Listing (final version)Vintage 22" Egyptian Hand-Engraved Silver-Plated Brass Tray – Signed Abd al-Karim Yasin – Cairo, Mid-20th Century✨ Highlights
✨Authentic Egyptian craftsmanship – hand-engraved and signed by Abd al-Karim Yasin (عبد الكريم ياسين)
✨Large 22″ (56 cm) diameter overall – about 17″ inner engraved area
✨Heavy silver-plated brass (2.8 kg / 6.2 lb) – substantial, not thin souvenir metal
✨Intricate Islamic floral and arabesque design – each detail hand-chased
✨Mid-20th century Cairo workshop (c. 1940s–1970s)
✨Three threaded fittings on the reverse – designed for attachment to a traditional Egyptian stand (originally used as a tea table top)
✨Excellent vintage condition – natural patina, no dents or repairs
✨Perfect for display, serving, or wall mounting
Description
This exceptional vintage Egyptian silver-plated brass tray was hand-engraved and signed by Abd al-Karim Yasin (عبد الكريم ياسين), a respected Cairo metal artisan active during the mid-20th century.
Measuring 22 inches (56 cm) from rim to rim (≈17″ inner engraved surface) and weighing a solid 2.8 kg (6.2 lb), this tray displays an intricate arrangement of floral and geometric motifs inspired by classical Islamic and Mamluk design.
The mark on the reverse reads “صنعها عبد الكريم ياسين” (“Made by Abd al-Karim Yasin”) and is accompanied by his hallmark featuring a peacock emblem and stylized initials.
The underside includes three threaded fittings that were originally used to attach the tray to a short or folding stand, a design common in Cairo during the 1940s–1970s for portable tea tables. These mounts confirm that the tray was intended as a functional serving table top, not merely decorative wall art.
Each element was hand-chased and engraved, producing subtle depth and shimmer when viewed under light.
The cast rim with leaf-pattern detailing and gentle patina highlight its authenticity and craftsmanship.
Details
Origin: Cairo, Egypt
Maker: Abd al-Karim Yasin (signed in Arabic)
Material: Silver-plated brass
Diameter: 22″ (56 cm) overall / 17″ inner area
Weight: 2.8 kg (6.2 lb)
Period: Mid-20th century (c. 1940–1970)
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light oxidation and gentle surface wear; no dents or repairs
Features: Three threaded stand fittings on the underside
This piece represents the finest of Cairo’s hand-engraved metalwork tradition — a beautiful blend of artistry and function.
About the Maker
Abd al-Karim Yasin was a skilled Egyptian metal artisan active in Cairo during the mid-1900s.
His workshop was known for finely engraved silver-plated brass trays and tea sets featuring refined Islamic motifs and distinctive hallmarks such as the peacock emblem seen here.
Each piece was individually engraved by hand — no two were alike — representing the best of Cairo’s traditional craftsmanship.
Authentic, signed, and beautifully made. Ships safely and quickly — offers welcome!