Set of 4 Vintage Engraved Kohl Bottles with Applicator Wands – Silver Tone Surma Containers – Middle Eastern Vanity Decor

Details

A beautiful and unusual set of four vintage kohl or surma containers, made from silver-tone metal and decorated with individually engraved floral and geometric motifs.

Each flat, round bottle includes a long, slender metal applicator wand. The diamond-shaped upper section serves as both the handle and stopper. Small metal chains were originally used to keep the applicators attached to the containers.
These traditional vessels were most likely used to store and apply kohl or surma eye powder. Their exact country of origin is unknown, but the form and ornamentation are associated with traditional cosmetic containers from the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia.
The four pieces vary slightly in size, engraving and construction, giving the set a charming handmade character. They would make a wonderful addition to a collection of vintage vanity accessories, traditional metalwork or ethnographic decorative objects.

Estimated age
Believed to date from approximately the 1930s–1960s. The exact age and origin cannot be confirmed.

Condition
The set is offered in authentic, unrestored vintage condition.

Signs of age and use include:

surface patina and oxidation
scratches, marks and discoloration
wear to the engraved decoration
slight irregularities and small dents
loose or detached chain sections

Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Included
4 engraved metal containers
4 applicator wands
the chains and chain sections shown in the photographs
Measurements


Material
Silver-tone metal or metal alloy. The material has not been tested and the pieces are not being sold as sterling silver.

Important note

These items are sold strictly as vintage collectibles and decorative objects. They have not been cleaned or tested for modern cosmetic use and should not be used to apply cosmetics.