Iran, second half of the 17th century
Stonepaste, luster decoration over a transparent colored glaze
H. 27.5 cm; Max. Diam. 14.5 cm; Base Diam. 8.7 cm
Musée du Louvre, Musée des Arts décoratifs deposit, acquired 1894
Ucad 8061

During the seventeenth century it is not rare to find objects with a luster decoration over a colored glaze – especially a transparent, cobalt blue glaze. This piece is characterized by a vegetal decoration which spreads out freely over the brilliant glaze. Its subtly curved godrooned body enhances the iridescent reflections of the decoration, which is exclusively vegetal and organized around the motif of a willow. On this bottle the willow is particularly stylized, a feature that recalls seventeenth century Safavid miniatures, especially those created in the ateliers of Isfahan.