Bottle with Bulb-Shaped Neck

Unknown

12th century · Stonepaste; luster-painted on opaque monochrome glaze · Islamic Art

The introduction of luster ware to Iran dates to the early twelfth century, with the arrival of potters from Egypt, perhaps via Syria. These potters settled in Kashan, where they developed a new style of luster painting. Some of the decoration, like the row of small‑scale horseback riders parading around this bottle, relates to manuscript illustration. Hallmarks of this "miniature style" include the checkerboard trees and dotted branches seen on this object.

Artist

Unknown

Date

12th century

Medium

Stonepaste; luster-painted on opaque monochrome glaze

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1966