Luster Bowl with Antelope

1000s

Egypt, Fustat (Old Cairo), Fatimid period

(909–1171)

Medium

earthenware with luster-painted design

Measurements

Diameter: 25.4 cm (10 in.); Overall: 6.8 cm (2 11/16 in.)

Credit Line

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1944.476

You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.

Location

116 Islamic

Did You Know?

The luster technique was transmitted by Iraqi potters to the Fatimid court in Cairo.

Description

The production of lusterware flourished in the prosperous Fatimid court in Cairo. The technique used metal oxides to paint designs onto a ceramic vessel. It was expensive and unpredictable but, if done correctly, would create a glistening effect. Fatimid lusterware motifs are quite varied, drawing on Greek and Christian themes, floral and vegetal designs, and a menagerie of animals. Some scenes focus on a single creature, as is the case with the antelope on this dish, while others evoke courtly themes of hunting or banquets.