Metal buckets occurred in pre-Islamic cultures in the Middle East and it is likely that the Islamic versions were based on the classical prototype of tapering cylindrical form known to have been produced in Egypt.

This bucket has a bulbous body, slightly flaring rim and a semi-circular handle of rather square profile.
This is a masterpiece of Islamic bronze work; the magnificent bucket is intricately incised with ornate calligraphy and stylized designs. Medallions depicting animals decorate the smooth body of the bucket, giving the object a sense of simplicity.