Lot 26Antiquities
Early Islamic Persian Polychrome Buff-Ware Bowl with Radial Floral Decoration, Probably Nishapur
Estimate$600–$1,000
Offered in A Lifetime of Discovery II · Sunday, September 27, 2026, 1:00 PM Eastern
A finely potted shallow buff earthenware bowl resting on a low ring foot, the interior decorated in black with a bold radial floral rosette of alternating green and yellow lobes beneath a transparent lead glaze. Small abstract foliate and pseudo-calligraphic filler motifs surround the central design, framed by concentric bands below the rim.
The combination of buff earthenware, manganese-black outlines, copper-green and yellow pigments, and transparent lead glaze is characteristic of early Islamic Persian buff wares. The form and decoration closely relate to ceramics produced in northeastern Iran, particularly the Nishapur region, during the 9th and 10th centuries. The exterior is largely undecorated, displaying pronounced wheel marks and an unglazed foot typical of the period.
- Provenance
- Property from an important private collection, assembled by a dealer and collector over more than six decades.
- Size
- 7.5 in. diameter.
- Condition
- Extensive age-related glaze wear, scattered losses to the painted decoration, chips and abrasions to the rim and foot, with surface encrustation and mineral deposits consistent with long-term age. No obvious modern restoration is visible under normal examination, though inspection under ultraviolet light is recommended.
Estimates are opinions of value, given as a guide.