Qajar Stonepaste Bottle Vase With Portrait Decoration, C. 1850–1880

An antique Persian bottle vase dating to c. 1850–1880. Hand-thrown from a white stonepaste (fritware) body, the vase combines traditional Persian craftsmanship with an appealing figural and floral decorative scheme.

One side displays the portrait of a young nobleman or courtier, while the reverse features a floral composition in the Islimi tradition with cobalt-blue blossoms, carnation buds and scrolling turquoise-green foliage. Designed for viewing in the round, the decoration changes as the vase is rotated, creating a distinctive visual effect. The combination of portraiture and floral ornament is characteristic of the decorative arts of the Qajar period.

The pear-shaped body and long tapering neck are covered with a transparent lead glaze displaying extensive age craquelure. The rim retains visible glaze pooling and slight asymmetry, while traces of glaze run-off and firing deposits remain visible around the footrim.

A highly decorative example of nineteenth-century Islamic pottery and an attractive display piece for collectors of Islamic art. The combination of portrait decoration, traditional stonepaste construction and authentic age characteristics makes it especially desirable.

Measurements

• Height: 29.2 cm / 11.5″
• Diameter: 12.5 cm / 4.9″
• Weight: 776 g

Condition

Excellent antique condition overall. Age-related craquelure throughout. Small chip inside the rim. No structural restorations. Displays exceptionally well and remains a fine representative example of Qajar-period pottery.

Shipping & Packaging

Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and secure postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.

Questions are welcome.