Islamic Art and Archaeology Early Persian Glass Vessel with Iridescent Surface from Medieval Iran 8th to 12th Century

Antique

Non-Paper Memorabilia

Early Islamic glass vessel, Persian origin. Medieval Iranian glass production from the eighth through twelfth centuries formed an important component of the artistic and commercial culture of the Islamic world, supplying luxury tableware and vessels that circulated through regional trade networks extending across the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean. Glassmakers working in Persia during this period developed refined techniques for shaping thick blown vessels and producing luminous surfaces that later acquired iridescent patination through centuries of burial. Surviving examples from this early period remain comparatively scarce because ancient glass frequently fractured or deteriorated over time, making intact vessels uncommon in archaeological recovery and museum collections.

Small glass pitcher attributed to Persia, Iran, dating approximately to the eighth through twelfth century. Height approximately 4¼ inches. The vessel is composed of thick glass exhibiting vivid iridescence across the surface in tones of aqua, azure, and deep emerald green. The object has been recomposed, likely assembled from fragments of one or more period glass vessels, a restoration approach commonly encountered in archaeological glass when ancient fragments are preserved and later reconstructed to approximate their original form.

Glass vessels produced in the medieval Islamic world were widely valued for both domestic use and ceremonial display, and Persian workshops played an important role in the broader development of Islamic decorative arts. Archaeological discoveries from Iran and neighboring regions demonstrate that glass artisans experimented with form, thickness, and surface effects that would later influence glassmaking traditions across the Islamic world and beyond. Reconstructed objects such as this example preserve the visual character of early Islamic glass production and illustrate the color, texture, and iridescent surfaces that developed as ancient glass weathered over centuries. Minor surface wear and evidence of reconstruction consistent with archaeological glass restoration. Overall condition good.

Item #10539

Price: $750.00