Bowl
Unknown Artist
mid-12th century
Medium
Stonepaste; luster-painted
Dimensions
H. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm) Diam. 11 7/8 in. (30.2 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Habib Anavian, 1975
Accession Number
1975.40
Art Historical Context
This elegant mid-12th-century bowl exemplifies the pinnacle of Islamic ceramic artistry during the Seljuq period.ed from stonepaste—a composite material of quartz, clay, and frit that mimicked the translucency of Chinese porcelain—it measures 6 11/16 inches high and 11 7/8 inches in diameter perfect for serving fruits, sweets, or beverages at elite gatherings. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in1975 by Habib An, it resides in the Islamic Art department, highlighting the sophistication of medieval Middle Eastern workshops, likely in Iran or Syria. The standout feature is its luster-pa...