An Abbasid Lustre Dish with two hares, Iraq, 9th Century

of deep rounded form on a short foot, the body with edges gently curving outwards, composed of earthenware painted in a golden lustre on an opaque white glaze, with two hares running along the bowl against a hatched line ground, the exterior with three large roundels filled with arrow point motifs, between a dotted line background

ex-Croisier Collection, Switzerland

Once broken and restored with associated overpainting of a slightly orange colour compared to the golden original, overall bright and in good condition, 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 dynamic action of this bowl, which features two hares running, is rendered more vibrant by the slanted hatched lines that fill the space inbetween. Even though the subject and execution are seemingly simple, such a play on design shows the inventiveness of the early Abbasid potters in creating animation within their designs.