Kashan 'Black and Blue' Lustre Bowl - LK.011, Origin: Central Asia, Circa: 1200 AD to 1300 AD, Dimensions: 3.14" (8.0cm) high x 6.1" (15.5cm) wide, Collection: Islamic Art, Style: Kashan, Medium: Fritware. The techniques of underglaze paintings spread across the Islamic world and were used for the simple wares in the most regional potteries, where skills in manufacture and decoration were at best basic. This rounded bowl with flaring sides is decorated in underglaze turquoise and black. Inside appears to be a half bird half human figure against a floral background. The style of decoration relates to paintings seen in the miniature lustre style and is exquisitely decorated with a single, large figure, the remaining background space is filled by curled palmette leaves. The colours used in underglaze-painting were limited to three: cobalt blue, turquoise and black. These colours were applied all together, or sometimes only two; then the vessel was coated with a clear blue or turquoise colour in place of the transparent glaze. In the case of wares with human figures, one can reveal a close relationship with contemporary lustre-painted pottery.

Antiquities
Ancient Near East