Ewer with 'Tughra-Illuminator' Style Decoration
Unknown Artist
1525–40
Medium
Stonepaste; painted in blue under transparent glaze
Dimensions
Pitcher (a): H. 8 13/16 in. (22.4 cm) W. 7 7/16 in. (18.9 cm) Max. diam. 5 1/2 in. (14 cm) Lid (b): H. 1 9/16 in. (4 cm) Diam. 3 7/16 in. (8.7 cm) Wt. 1.9 oz (53.9 g)
Classification
Ceramics
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1966
Accession Number
66.4.3a, b
Art Historical Context
This exquisite ewer, crafted between 1525 and 1540, exemplifies the pinnacle of Ottoman Islamic ceramics during the empire's golden age under Suleiman the Magnificent. Made of stonepaste—a fine, vitreous clay body prized for its ability to mimic Chinese porcelain—the pitcher and its fitted lid feature intricate blue paintings under a transparent glaze. Standing about 9 inches tall with the lid, it was likely used for pouring rosewater or other scented liquids in elite households or ceremonies, blending utility with opulent artistry. The decoration in the 'Tughra-Illuminator' style draws direc...