A very fine and rare pear-shaped bronze ewer cast with seven registers. The large central band around the body cast with deep criss-cross ridges forming large diamond-shaped lozenges. The three large lozenges alternately engraved with a peacock and a dragon-like figure. The smaller lozenges engraved with a galloping hare. The elongated neck has a three-part decoration, the first engraved with a honeycomb motif followed by a convex band engraved with a lattice-motif.
A further lower band engraved with a line of angular Kufic. The spout has an elongated upturned mouth engraved on either side with an arabesque motif and a bird attached also on either side.
A lion’s head sits on the top of the lid. A very elegant S-shaped handle attached to the body and a falcon with crossed wings sitting on top. The splayed foot-ring engraved with a fine band of angular Kufic calligraphy. The piece covered with an excellent green and red patina.
Although the shape of this ewer is typical of the period, it is probably amongst one of the most unique pieces in terms of indented decoration on its body.

Khurasan, Persia
12th Century

Height: 33cm

cf: A Survey of Persian Art, Arthur Upham-Pope, pl.1309 a,b,c and d.
Musée du Louvre, Paris
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York