Blue-and-white ceramics became popular in the Islamic world as early as the 9th century. In later centuries, the stylistic exchange between Iran and China, as well as the high demand for Chinese porcelain in the Islamic world, led to the production of large quantities of blue-and-white wares in both Iran and China. This example from Safavid Iran shows the influence of Chinese art in the six lion-like creatures along the rim, as well as in the cloud forms behind them.
Credit: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel M. Nickerson
Safavid dynasty (1501–1722), 17th century
Fritware with underglaze painting in blue and black
9.6 x 46.7cm
1900.1365
Image and text courtesy of Art Institute of Chicago, 2019
Where you'll find this
Art Institute of Chicago
Permanent collection