Bronze vase, appears antique, chased surface - Asian writing?

This piece just came in and we are researching it. It appears to be made of bronze or similar alloy. It measures 9-1/2 inches high and is 7-1/2 inches in diameter, measured at the rim. It weighs 4-1/2 pounds. There is a seam line visible in the interior, about 1/2 way down, running the entire circumference. The interior has a thin black coating of a tar like material with some chips to the material near the top.

The exterior has a chased design. There is a band near the top of the exterior with oval shaped panels. I can't tell if they contain Asian text, or if it is just part of an abstract design.

Does anyone recognize any text? I've included close ups of most of the individual panels. The underside is unmarked. Any thoughts as to the origin of the vase? Thanks in advance! ... Dave

 

The writing looks Arabic to me. I'd guess the mid-east.

 

A colleague thought Asian, but it didn't look familar. Arabic sounds right, but I wish I knew what it said.

 

North African, or possibly Turkish from the pre Ataturk days. Yes, Arabic, and a blessing of sorts, but I can't recall what.

 

Thank you for the confirmation on the language and age -- a huge help. ... Dave