Author
Unknown
Publication Date
1208
Publication Place
Kashan (made) -
Subject
Polo Players Birds Leaves Horses
Type
Other
Language
Undetermined
Digital
Yes
Manuscript
No
Physical Dimensions
Diameter: 35.2cm
Library
Victoria and Albert Museum
Library Asset ID
C.51-1952
Record ID
C.51-1952
Library Location
Middle East Section
Date
1208
Notes
The verses surrounding the polo player on this dish suggest that he represents an unattainable object of desire. One poem reads: âIt has not been my habit, where lust is concerned, To speak of the pain in my heart to anyone. Despite this, I wish to say one thing: I have died for love of you! Respond to my cry for help!â In many Islamic societies, scenes containing humans and animals were a common type of decoration in non-religious contexts. The source of this imagery was usually poetry, the most highly esteemed form of secular literature. Luxury copies of narrative poems were often illustrated with fine paintings, and the more familiar episodes were depicted on palace walls and objects. Love lyrics accompanied portrayals of beautiful young men and women. Odes in praise of the ruler inspired enthronement scenes. The recitation of poems at court was depicted, as were princely activities such as hunting and, as here, playing polo.
Sample Text
amorous poetry Note Persian; around outside of central composition
Malzemeler ve teknikler
Fritware with lustre decoration Fritware Lustre-Painted
Fiziksel açıklama
White bowl with lustre-painted figure of a polo player on a horse, surrounded by dense ornament including conch-like leaves and birds.
Üslup
Kashan