An exceptional condition ceramic plate with black on creamy white glaze, dating 9th-10th. cent. A.D.

Bowls including bold black inscriptions in the so-called kufic angular calligraphy were produced in the important ceramic centers of Nishapur in eastern Iran. The text often contains a proverb in Arabic or a series of wishes. This plate, which was used to serve food, is one of the most accomplished works of the type, with artistic calligraphy. The plate represents the first revival of the traditional art due to the rise of the native Islamic dynasty of the Samanids. A most important plate that shows the true spirit of the simple artful style that owes much to the Sassanian art and to the earlier cultures of the Iran.

Size: c. 285 mm. wide and c. 40 mm. high.

Condition: Choice! The glaze is a mulitude of small crackles and surface is complete and ancient. Minor restoration and a few details repainted.

Antiquities
Ancient Near East