Cup

Art Historical Context

This delicate stonepaste cup, crafted by an unknown artist in the18th century, exemplifies refined ceramic traditions of Islamic art. Measuring just 1 5/16 inches (3.3 cm) in height and 2 1/8 inches (5.4 cm) in diameter, its diminutive size suggests it may have served as a finial, scent cup, or vessel for precious oils and perfumes—items prized in Ottoman or Persian courts for their luxury and portability. Stonepaste, a hallmark of Islamic pottery innovation, combines ground quartz, clay, and glass frit to create a durable, porcelain-like white body ideal for intricate glazing and decoration....