A J.L. Lobmeyr Enameled ‘Persian Style’ Glass Charger, circa 1878, enameled JLL monogram mark, designed by Machytka and Schmoranz. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2012

In the 13th century style from the 'Arabian Series', the central rosette surrounded by interlaced ribbons in the shape of a six-branch star on a gilt seeded ground, the broad border with radiating almond-shaped petals alternately enriched with bright blue interlaced ribbons and pale-blue enameled floral arabesques, the cavetto, petals and rim with a bands of Arabic calligraphy; 17 5/8 in. (44.7 cm.) diameter. Lot 55. Estimate $15,000 - $20,000

Notes: Founded in Vienna in 1822 by Josef Lobmeyr (1792-1855), a glazier from Grieskirchen near Linz, J. & L. Lobmeyr (named for Josef's sons Josef and Ludwig), was amongst the premier glassmakers of the 19th century who showed a strong interest in Islamic glass. It was under Ludwig's direction that the company turned its attention to enamel painting and Islamic style ornamentation. Known as the Arabian style, this series was designed by the architects Johann Machytka and Franz Schmoranz around 1878 and examples were shown in the Paris Exposition Universelle of that year.

The main inscription around the rim and cavetto is an Arabic proverb that translates 'Knowledge is the Best Foundation and Piety the Best Robe'. The inscription surrounding the blue petals translates to 'He who enters the place where they aren't supposed to be will hear things that displease him.' These sayings are frequently translated into German and inscribed under the foot of the piece. For an example of this design with the German translation on the reserve, see Christie's, London, 31 March 2009, lot 231. Also compare the examples sold Sotheby's, London, 31 October 2006, lot 591, and for slightly variant example, see Sotheby's, London, 24 May 2006, lot 103. 

Christie's. 500 Years: Decorative Arts Europe Including Oriental Carpets. 7 June 2012 . New York, Rockefeller Plaza