Ottoman Silver Zarf for a Turkish Coffee Cup

A zarf, from the Arabic for "vessel", is the small footed holder that cradles a porcelain cup of Turkish coffee, keeping the hand clear of the heat. This example is worked in .900 silver and decorated with armorial and floral motifs.

It is hallmarked with the Sultan's tuğra seal and the assayer's saf purity mark. Height is approximately 5.9 cm; weight approximately 41 grams.

Zarfs were made in many idioms across the Middle East, and the form remains one of the most personal objects in the coffee service.