A Fine Ilkhanid "Lotus" Bowl, Persia, 14th Century

of hemispherical form on a short foot, painted in underglaze cobalt blue and black with touches of manganese, the interior of the bowl conceived as a geometricised lotus flower with lozenge-shaped petals filled with floral sprays opening out from a central black-line medallion scattered with flowerheads, the back with stiff petal panels

Fine condition, hairline crack to body consolidated and stabilised, two small chips to the rim filled with plaster, 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 lotus bowl form derives from Longquan celadon wares, whilst the painted decoration fuses local conventions with exotic innovations. This synthesis of Persian and Chinese elements is characteristic of the hybrid style that emerged in the Ilkhanid period. Similar wares were also produced in Syria and Egypt under Mamluk patronage, see Watson 2004, p.401, cat.R.6.