This is a small brass pocket compass, likely Islamic or Middle Eastern in origin, with an Arabic-script paper dial beneath glass. The construction and surface wear are consistent with an antique or early vintage utilitarian navigation instrument, though the exact date is uncertain and the piece could also be a later souvenir or assembled example. The lack of maker’s mark and the worn, stained dial limit confidence. A conservative auction estimate would be roughly $100 to $300 if authentic, or $25 to $75 if later.
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Item Report
Islamic Brass Pocket Compass
By:Unknown
Style:Islamic / Middle Eastern utilitarian object
Origin:Likely North Africa or the Middle East
Materials:Brass, glass, paper
Age:19th century or early 20th century, exact date uncertain
Condition:Good (visible wear, tarnish, and age staining; not officially graded)
Value:Authentic: $100-$300; reproduction or later souvenir: $25-$75
Maker's Marks / Writing:Arabic-script markings on the compass card; no maker’s mark visible.
Date:2026-05-10 17:59:58.608487
Description:
Small brass pocket compass with a hinged lid and a printed paper compass card under glass. The dial shows Arabic script, suggesting an Islamic-world or North African provenance, but the piece appears worn and may be later or partially assembled.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This appears to be a small antique or vintage compass in Islamic style, likely intended for travel or practical use. The Arabic-script card supports a Middle Eastern/North African origin, but the visible wear, surface grime, and lack of a maker’s mark make precise dating uncertain.
Individual Images:
lid underside
compass face under glass
Provenance:
No provenance provided.
Condition:
Good (visible wear, tarnish, and age staining; not officially graded)
Identification Score: 74%
The form, glass-covered dial, and Arabic-script compass card clearly indicate a pocket compass, but the exact region and age cannot be confirmed from the photos alone.
Authenticity Score: 58%
The brass housing and aged surface are plausible for an old compass, but the condition of the dial, generic construction, and limited views leave open the possibility of a later tourist piece or assembled example.
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