Bowl with Seated Figure
Regionfrom the area of
Rayy
Date1200–1299
Creation PlaceRayy, Iran
MediumFrit body, painted in luster on an opaque white glaze
Dimensions7.9 x 20.3 cm (3 1/8 x 8 in.)
ClassificationsCeramics
MarkingsNo marks.
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number1918.18
DescriptionStraight flaring sides. Figure in center, arabesques in brown on white in reserves. The narrow brown band at the rim on the outside with brown scroll-shaped marks beneath. Tall foot with dark brown edge underneath.Label TextWith its brilliant effect and striking imagery, lusterware was popular among the affluent members of Islamic society as early as the 9th century. It is technically complex, requiring two kiln firings and the use of expensive metallic oxide glazes. Thus, it is also time-consuming and expensive to produce. Before the Mongol invasion of the Islamic lands in 1221, lusterware was produced in significant numbers in cities like Rayy and Kashan. Based on archaeological evidence, scholars have identified three styles of decorative programs used in such lusterware: monumental, miniature, and Kashan—a combination of the first two. This bowl with a seated figure in the middle and decorative bands around it represents the Kashan style. The figure’s round face, commonly called the moon face or mah-ruy in Persian, was considered the epitome of beauty in Persian poetry. Together, the moon-faced beauty and the golden sheen of the bowl would create an indulgent sensory experience for its viewers.ProvenanceBrooks Reed Gallery, Boston, MA
On View
On viewCurrent Location
- Exhibition Location Gallery 106
Chinese
12th or 13th century, Northern Song dynasty (960–1127) or Southern song dynasty (1127–1279)