Incised Kashan Green Glazed Bowl - GD.010, Origin: Central Asia, Circa: 1100 AD to 1300 AD, Dimensions: 3.3" (8.4cm) high x 7.1" (18.0cm) wide, Collection: Islamic Art, Style: Kashan, Medium: Glazed Earthenware. By the 12th century, an almost revolutionary step had been taken in the pottery production of the Near East. The new body material, known as fritware was introduced in the region, either direct from Egypt or Syria. The beginning of the production of these wares borrowed elements from Chinese porcelain. Eventually, Iranian potters began to exploit coloured glazes and developed a wide range of shapes and motifs that owed nothing to China, Kashan was the main centre, producing wares of the highest quality, although evidence does point to the fact that wares of this period were also produced in different regions.

Antiquities
Ancient Near East