Chamfered Vase with Lajvardina Decoration

end of 13th century - beginning of 14th century

Vessels with "lajvardina" decoration present all the characteristics of prestige ceramics. Luxury ware set off with gold, they owe their name to their characteristic deep blue "sang-i-lajvard", the Persian name for lapis lazuli, which indicates the colour of the cobalt oxide used in the glaze. The type of decoration was clearly influenced by China following the Mongolian invasions of the 13th century, and the eight sides of the object are thus decorated with a royal crane with outspread wings. The white gadroons emerging from the petals of the stylised lotus flower on the base of the vase are also of Chinese inspiration, while the pseudo-inscription in lanceolate kufic on the neck is derived from a classical tradition. The chamfered shape of the jar is of Mediterranean origin.

Artwork Details