This pen box is decorated with bold thuluth calligraphic inscriptions and interlaced floral arabesques. The particular floral ornament, as well as the epigraphic style, is typical of Iranian metalwork dating to the late 15th and early 16th century.

The inscriptions contain prayers to Ali, the son-in-law and cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, as well as blessings to the owner, and the name of the engraver (Hasan Ramadan Shahi).

The interior of the box is divided into compartments to hold reed pen(s), the inkwell, and a sandpot. The high esteem of the calligrapher and his art is demonstrated by the lavish nature of this carefully crafted object, which would have both safeguarded and displayed his tools.