Ewer

Maker Unidentified artist

Date12th or early 13th century

MediumBronze with silver inlay

Dimensions10 13/16 × 6 11/16 inches (27.5 × 17 cm)

CultureEastern Iranian world, Khorasan region

ClassificationsMetalwork

Credit LineAcquired through the George and Mary Rockwell Fund

Terms

Asia
Metalwork
Vessels - Ewers
Iranian
Persian
Silver inlay
Bronze
Animals
Arabesques
Birds
Floral patterns
Glory
Inscriptions
Medallions
Plant-derived motifs
Prosperity
Wealth

Object number2001.043

Label CopyThe Khorasan region encompassed areas of northeastern Iran, southern Turkmenistan, and northern Afghanistan. From the mid-twelfth century until the Mongol invasions of 1219, Khorasan metalworkers specialized in producing luxury objects of hammered metal with inlaid decoration. On this ewer, the elegant and precise surface designs include arabesques within medallions or cartouches placed so as to enhance the undulating profile of the vessel. A band of calligraphic inlay around the neck conveys auspicious wishes in unbroken repetition: “Glory and prosperity and wealth, and endurance, and….”

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