Description:

: A HIGHLY RARE ENGRAVED JADE BOWL, SAFAVID, 17TH CENTURY
Iran, 17th century

Description:
Dark green nephrite jade; of shallow rounded form with gently flaring rim and small foot ring. The exterior is intricately engraved with scrolling arabesque and floral motifs, likely echoing contemporary Safavid tilework and bookbinding designs. The polished, semi-translucent surface enhances the elegance of the vegetal patterning, making this a refined example of Persian lapidary art. The stone is smoothly worked and retains a deep, lustrous sheen.

Carved jade bowls from the Safavid period are rare, typically reserved for elite use, including presentation gifts or ceremonial service, often linked to royal or high-ranking court figures.

Comparable examples:

  • A Mughal nephrite jade bowl, 17th century, sold at Christie’s London, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 25 May 2023, Lot 140, for £60,480.

  • Carved jade bowl, Safavid period, Iran, 17th century, Sotheby’s London, 1 May 2019, Lot 97, realised £52,500.

  • A Persian jade dish with incised decoration, sold at Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, 11 June 2018, Lot 134, for £37,500.

Note:
While jade is more commonly associated with Chinese and later Mughal court arts, Safavid Iran also maintained a tradition of jade carving, albeit more selectively. Jade objects were considered auspicious and symbolised power, refinement, and permanence. The present piece’s stylistic and material rarity place it within the highest echelons of Safavid decorative arts, likely produced in or for the royal court of Isfahan.

 



Diameter: 13cm

Height: 6.5cm

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
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