Artwork Page for Nishapur Figural Bowl

Details / Information for Nishapur Figural Bowl

Nishapur Figural Bowl

900s

Iran, Nishapur, Samanid period

(819–1005)
Medium
Earthenware with underglaze decoration
Measurements
Overall: 8 x 35.6 cm (3 1/8 x 14 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1959.249
Public Domain
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Location
116 Islamic
Print

Description

Nishapur was founded as a Sasanian imperial city and ceramics produced here regularly incorporate elements from Sasanian metalware. The lively decoration on this bowl features four bearded figures surrounded by animals, birds, and angular script (possibly extending baraka, blessing). The central horse with a cheetah on his back suggests an imperial hunt, a common theme in Sasanian and Islamic art. The decorative motifs and figures employed on Nishapur polychrome ware reflect the rich cultural traditions in this part of northeastern Iran. Some vessels, like this one, depict the pastime of hunting, others reflect festivals celebrated by Muslims and Zoroastrians, and a few display Christian symbols.
Inside of a ceramic bowl colored in green, yellow, and brown and with a circular base with a cheetah standing on the back of a horse, both stylized against a brown background. Against yellow, four men with light skin tones circle the rim, as wide as the base. They have dark beards, wear trousers or wraps and shirts patterned with polka-dots and crosses, and gesture towards the center. Animals, birds, and angular script surround them.

Nishapur Figural Bowl

900s

Iran, Nishapur, Samanid period (819–1005)

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