A Samanid calligraphic pottery ewer, Central Asia, 10th century

of baluster shape, with bulbous body, narrow gently flaring neck and strap handle, painted in manganese black with a monumental inscription around the body and double band around the neck

chips and losses to foot, breaks and losses around the body with associated repair, as viewed
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

inscription

al-hila atla[fat?] al-quwwa

'Deception destroys (?) capability [or courage?]'

Few calligraphic slip-painted ewers have survived in complete form, the shape of the current lot has parallels with earlier unglazed wares. The calligraphed decoration is thought to have been inspired by silverware. It is difficult to be precise about geographical origin, but Samarkand, Nishapur and Utrar are all known to have been established centres of pottery production in the Samanid period.

The measured and stately inscription recalls Arthur Lane's emotional description of the "... stark and moving simplicity [which is] of the highest intellectual order." Lane went on to comment, "They hold the essence of Islam undiluted." (Watson 2004, p.204).