A Safavid Gombroon Pottery Bowl, Persia, 17th century

of elegant rounded form with a raised central boss encircled by a multi-petalled rosette painted in cobalt blue outlined in black, the walls with pierced "rice-grain" decoration filled with transparent colourless alkaline glaze, on a short footring with recessed base

Published in 1400 Years of Islamic Art, 1981, no.129

in good condition, one rim chip, slight glaze cracks at the rim, 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."

This is a fine example of one of the most refined forms of ceramic ever produced in Persia. The name "Gombroon" refers to the port of Gombroon, or Bandar Abbas, on the Persian Gulf where these wares were shipped for export. The pierced decoration is in imitation of the "rice-grain" decoration in Chinese porcelain.