Today, I bought this "vase" for $5 at an estate sale. It is wooden, and quite light. The top of the object has no traditional vase opening- only a small hole (maybe to hold incense)? There is imagery of an African-like landscape with grasslands, cheetahs and gazelles. However, there are several large circular areas that seems to tell a story- One has two men in turbans riding elephants, that seem to be fighting. Another has several men sitting on a tile floor in a beautiful palace, drinking wine and negotiating. The men appear to be asian in appearance. There is also writing at the top of the vase that appears Persian or Arabic.
So therefore, I have no idea what culture the object comes from, how old it is, or the message it conveys. I also don't know if it is unique, as a gift for someone, or a more common artwork telling a story that would be displayed in an everyday house. Anyone have any ideas at all what this thing is?? It's quite beautiful, and very detailed.