Description:

 A RARE KUFIC INSCRIBED SELJUK MONOCHROME MOULDED POTTERY JUG, 12TH CENTURY
Persia, 12th century

Description:
A small but refined Seljuk-period jug, moulded in relief and covered in a brilliant cobalt blue monochrome glaze. The globular body is richly decorated with repeating vegetal palmettes and interlacing arabesques framed within almond-shaped cartouches. The neck bears a kufic inscription in relief beneath a flaring rim, and the handle terminates in a stylised zoomorphic form. This piece exemplifies the sophisticated ceramic production of Seljuk Iran, where innovative glazing and moulding techniques flourished.

Dimensions:
Height: 11 cm

Comparable examples:

  • A cobalt-blue glazed moulded jug with kufic inscription, Seljuk period, 12th century, sold at Sotheby’s, London, Arts of the Islamic World, 25 April 2018, Lot 118, for £35,000.

  • A similar moulded jug with vegetal and epigraphic decoration, Iran, early 12th century, sold at Bonhams, London, Islamic and Indian Art, 11 June 2012, Lot 30, for £28,750.

  • A related monochrome blue-glazed jug with kufic band, Seljuk Persia, sold at Christie’s, London, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 26 April 2018, Lot 82, for £33,750.

Note:
Seljuk ceramicists excelled in monochrome glazed ware, especially in cobalt and turquoise, using moulded decoration to enhance legibility and texture. The kufic script on this jug, often bearing blessings or benedictory phrases, adds a spiritual and aesthetic dimension to its function. Despite its diminutive size, the piece is a masterclass in Seljuk artistry and technical achievement.

 

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
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