Turkish Ottoman Empire Brass Reed Pen Holder Qalamdan Divit

The Ottoman Empire, mid. 19th century, Turkey

Fascinating, slender and rectangular brass traveling quill or reed pen holder (divit) with attached inkwell (qalamdan) with a shell-shaped hinged lid is from the period of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Sultanate or Ottoman Empire, also known as the Turkish Empire, was a Turkic imperial state between the c. 1299-1922 (years 1922-1924 as caliphate only). The qalamdan divit was used by scribes and calligraphers to store their brushes, quill or reed pen in the long pen box, and dry ink in the square container. Working in various bureaucratic departments the “people of pen” (kalem ehli) influenced political, diplomatic and intellectual life. Thus expensive and highly embellished qalamdans, often worn tucked into the belt, became sign of office and status.

Gorgeous traveling pen case is profusely decorated with beautiful chased Islamic designs and incised symbols. Good condition. Age-related wear and traces of encrusted ink. Great dark patina. Possibly later copper hinges on inkwell. Case lid bit crooked. Size approx. 21,0cm x 3,0cm (pen case) and 4,0cm x 3,0cm (inkwell).