Epigraphical turquoise pottery bowl, Iran or Golden Horde, Ilkhanid Period, 13th-14th century, 20cm diameter. Amir Mohtashemi Ltd at Brafa Art Fair, Brussels, 21-29 january 2017.

The frit-ware bowl is painted in a vibrant turquoise glaze. In the centre of the bowl, there is a double-cross design with boldly painted black underglaze naskhi calligraphy to the interior of the bowl. The inner rim is decorated with a pear-shaped border and radiating lines are represented on the exterior of the bowl.

This bowl with naskhi calligraphy is a prime example of the pottery ‘Sultanabad wares’ made under the Ilkhanid Period (1256-1353). The Mongol invasions in Iran and surrounding neighbours brought a cross-culture of trade through the Silk Road. 

See a similar bowl from Iran or possibly Golden Horde in The Al-Sabah Collection, Accession Number LNS 767 C, late 13th / early 14th century, also depicted with calligraphy and similar border decoration (Watson, p. 77). 

Provenance: Private French Collection 

Literature: Watson, Ceramics From Islamic Lands: Kuwait National Museum, The Al-Sabah Collection, Thames & Hudson, London, 2004.

Amir Mohtashemi Ltd. Indian and Islamic Works of Art, 69 Kensington Church Street, London W8 4BG, United Kingdom