Description:

**First Time At Auction**

Near East, Iran/Persia, Nishapur, ca. 10th century CE. A stunning pottery bowl meticulously hand-painted with stylized Kufic script, scrolling phytomorphic designs, and geometric motifs resembling the star of David. Nishapur ware used a white slip on a terracotta body with designs painted in slips of bright colors - mixing the colors with slip prevented them from running, leading to the crisp iconography like on this example. Size: 8.7" Diameter x 3.6" H (22.1 cm x 9.1 cm)

The inscriptions on bowls like this one are Arabic proverbs - in fact, some of the first extant examples that appear in the Islamic world. Each inscription is read by turning the bowl counterclockwise. Some of these inscriptions are a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad, and others are referencing social codes from the Samanids, who deeply valued hospitality and generosity.

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection through descent from uncle who acquired it around 1960

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#180591

  • Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and break lines visible in some areas. Two chips to rim and some expected abrasions to surface, commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice presentation with great preservation of detail.

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August 25, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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