The incense pot, created in the 11th-12th centuries in the territory of Maverannahr, is a vivid example of medieval metalworking art. This object is considered not only as a practical vessel, but also as a work of art that has acquired spiritual content through its structure, decoration, and symbolic solutions.
The incense bowl is made of bronze and has a wide-mouthed cup and three supports that support it. These supporting legs are notable for being made in the shape of elephants and indicate that they were valuable items used for special ceremonies.
Guzal Vakhobova, Doctor of Philosophy in Art History:
"In the Islamic Middle Ages, such bronze vessels were mainly used for incense, that is, for burning bakhur. According to archaeological findings and written sources, the custom of burning bakhur was associated with the purification of the space by smell, its spiritual purification. Therefore, such vessels were valued not as ordinary household items, but as special items used in rituals and worship processes. The patterns on the surface of the exhibit combined Islamic geometric ornaments with symbols characteristic of various cultural traditions. The use of the image of the elephant is especially noteworthy. This situation indicates that the territory of Central Asia had close cultural ties with India and other regions. That is, this item, along with being a product of local crafts, also embodies artistic thinking formed under the influence of different cultures."
This artifact was returned to Uzbekistan from London in 2025. Today it is part of the exposition of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan.