Bowls including bold black inscriptions in the so-called kufic angular calligraphy were apparently produced in the important ceramic centers of Nishapur in eastern Iran, and Afrasiyab, or Old Samarqand, in present-day Uzbekistan. The text often contains a proverb in Arabic or, as in this case, a series of wishes: "Blessing, happiness, prosperity, good health, and success." This large bowl, which was used to serve food, is one of the most accomplished works of the "black-and-red" type. Its inscription is highlighted by the hatched background, and the complex central medallion with symmetric vegetal motifs is set against a stippled background.

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