Vintage Egyptian Hand-Etched Brass Wall Tray featuring a Belly Dancer
Unbranded (Authentic Egyptian Artisan Craft) · Art & Decor > Wall Decor
Era / Decade
1960s-1970s (Mid-Century Tourist Era)
Material
Heavy Solid Brass with hand-etched details, likely featuring mixed-metal plating (silver/copper wash) or black niello-style inlay.
Condition
Good to Very Good. Some visible patina and oxidation typical of aged brass. The etching is crisp, but there are surface scuffs and areas where the dark finish has worn down.
Demand Level
Moderate (Consistent niche interest in Mid-Century interiors and Global/Bohemian decor)
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 - $125.00
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $250.00 (Modern high-end artisan equivalent)
Comparable Sales
Similar large etched Egyptian trays typically sell for $50-$85 on eBay. Exceptional pieces with complex mixed-metal inlays can reach $150+ in specialized vintage boutiques.
Description
Large, authentic vintage Egyptian brass wall plate/tray. This piece features a beautifully detailed hand-etched scene of a belly dancer in traditional attire, set against a backdrop of the Great Pyramids and a mosque with minarets. The intricate etching uses mixed metal tones to create depth. Approximately 24-30 inches in diameter (estimated by scale). Heavy weight with a scalloped edge and a hanging loop on the reverse.
Key Features
Large scale makes it a focal point; hand-etched craftsmanship; iconic Mid-Century Egyptian Revival imagery; solid brass construction with mixed metal aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Hand-tooling marks on the reverse; weight of the solid brass; traditional motifs. High confidence in its origin as a 20th-century Egyptian souvenir/export.
Flaws to Note
Significant tarnish/patina on the surface; some light scratches; may require specialized cleaning if a high-shine look is desired, though many collectors prefer the aged patina.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for global reach), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid high shipping costs for a heavy/large item).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Egyptian Revival,' 'Boho Decor,' and 'Dhakki' or 'Cairoware style.' Avoid over-polishing as collectors often want the vintage patina. Mention the diameter precisely and the weight for shipping calculations.