Forged during the early flowering of Islam, this
astonishing vessel, encrusted with a rich green
patina, would have likely dispensed hot
beverages such as tea. The squat body has been
engraved with three decorative motifs
resembling the Star of David contained within a
circle. However, the intertwining lines of the
symbol are purely ornamental and void of any
religious significance. An intricate incised band
emphasizes the join of the tapering neck and the
flattened shoulders of the body. An arched
handle rises from the body, connecting to the
flared, open mouth where a lid was once
attached. A small bronze bead crowns the top of
the handle while a leaf-shaped decoration
adorns the join of the body. This pot would not
be out of place in any home today in function;
however, its graceful form would surely stand
out.
- (FZ.385)
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