A magnificent large Nishapur slip-painted pottery dish, Persia, 10th century

of shallow rounded form with a flat base and broad rim, decorated with a monumental winged figure reserved on a brown slip ground, the wings and body with scale and scroll patterning flanked by palmette scrolls

losses with associated repair and repainting, 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."

The technique of overglaze lustre firing was a closely-guarded secret in the 10th century and the potters of Nishapur had to be content with replicating the effect of true lustre using underglaze earthy pigments.  As with the majority of Nishapur figural designs, the identity of the subject matter remains elusive. A related dish is in the Khalili Collection (Grube 1994, no.36, pp.46-8, London 2004, no.19, pp.68-9).