A rare Umayyad splash-glazed pottery inkwell, Spain, 10th century

of cylindrical form with a slightly swollen foot, the mouth with a thin rim, the shoulder with four applied lug handles, decorated in a light green ground with four thick lines in manganese, the interior possibly later

This item is in good condition. Minor losses throughout, especially to the lug handles, foot and rim. Light iridescence to some parts, especially the manganese decoration. Loss of colour throughout and loss of glaze to the bottom. Some lose parts in the interior, noticeable when tilted. 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 form of inkwell is familiar from other areas of the Islamic world in both pottery and glass. The rare Andalusian variant has the typical body and splash decoration of pottery from this region with suspension loops distinctively shaped as narrow vertical flanges. An inkwell of the same form was excavated at Bobastro, Andalucia, and by stratification could be dated to the Caliphal period, 942-1035 AD (Zozaya 1978, p.273, fig.7f).