Description:

AN INTACT WHEEL-CUT CLEAR GLASS BOTTLE, ABBASID, 9TH CENTURY
Iraq or Eastern Mediterranean, 9th century

Description:
Mould-blown and wheel-cut clear glass bottle with a cylindrical body resting on a flat base, transitioning into a domed shoulder and a conical flaring mouth. The decoration features a frieze of arcaded panels, each containing an ogival niche in relief, likely referencing architectural motifs. The shoulder is carved with a band of scalloped arches, topped by a plain band separating the flaring neck, which is faceted with vertical cuts. The underside exhibits a square motif. The bottle is complete and intact, with natural weathering and light iridescence consistent with archaeological glass.

Provenance: Property of a Middle Eastern Collection

This bottle represents a rare and refined example of Abbasid-period glassmaking, illustrating both technical skill and aesthetic sensitivity in the interplay of form and architectural ornament.

Comparable examples:

  • A similar Abbasid clear glass bottle with arcade design, 9th century, sold at Sotheby’s, London, Arts of the Islamic World, 1 May 2019, Lot 89, for £13,750.

  • A comparable wheel-cut bottle of similar form and decoration, Islamic, 9th century, sold at Christie’s, London, Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 26 April 2012, Lot 55, for £15,000.

  • An Abbasid mould-blown bottle with arcade patterning, Iraq, 9th century, sold at Bonhams, London, Islamic and Indian Art, 11 June 2008, Lot 172, for £12,000.

Note:
Abbasid glassware from the 9th century is celebrated for its delicate execution and architectural motifs, often echoing contemporary Islamic aesthetics seen in stucco and ceramic work. Bottles of this type were likely used to hold perfumes or medicinal liquids, emphasizing the refinement of Abbasid daily life and court culture.



Height: 14cm

Provenance: Property of a Middle Eastern Collection

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
£0 £99 £5
£100 £199 £10
£200 £499 £20
£500 £999 £50
£1,000 £1,999 £100
£2,000 £4,999 £200
£5,000 £9,999 £500
£10,000 £19,999 £1,000
£20,000 £49,999 £2,000
£50,000 £99,999 £5,000
£100,000 £199,999 £10,000
£200,000 £499,999 £20,000
£500,000 £999,999 £50,000
£1,000,000 + £100,000