Islamic Pottery Bowl with Figurative Paint Kashan Ware

Description

An earthenware bowl supported on a foot ring decorated with elaborate slip paint. The bowl was made in Kashan (in … more An earthenware bowl supported on a foot ring decorated with elaborate slip paint. The bowl was made in Kashan (in nowadays Iran) during 12-14th century, under Seljuk empire or after Mongols invasion. The likely frit ware bowl features a thinly pottered wall covered in a white slip background, on top of which delicate paint was added to depict a "conversation" scene that was popular in Kashan ware during that period. A group of four figures sitting facing each other was painted in realistic style with contemporary coiffure and attire in great details. Along the rim of the bowl, there is a band of Arabic inscription. A decorative band of repetitive design circumvents the exterior rim of the bowl.
Surprisingly remained in its original condition, structurally intact and without any in-paints (under UV), the bowl shows extensive and quite even patina related to age as shown in the photos. It displays a great antique appearance and aged beauty.
Kashan bowls with similar conversation motifs can be found in many collections, although many were painted in luster pigments. Examples are AKM559 in Agar Khan Musuem, F1941.11 in Freer Gallery of Art and 86.227.16 in Brooklyn Musuem. less