A large Nishapur calligraphic dish, PERSIA, 10TH CENTURY

of deep form with straight flaring walls, decorated in manganese black on a cream slip ground, the well with a central roundel enclosing a cruciform motif with attached split-palmette scrolls, the walls with a kufic inscription between minor bands



 

breaks and repairs, some parts of the rim missing and filled in with plaster with overpainting, 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

inscription

a[l-jud] min akhlaq ahl al-janna
[The section in square brackets is repainted]

'Generosity is a disposition of the dwellers of Paradise'

A comparable dish is in the Seattle Art Museum, inv.56.Is26.18, Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection (see London 1976, p.227,no.290). Another dish of similar shape, size and design sold in these rooms, 28 April 2004, lot 76.