Aug 3, 2012
Aug 3, 2012
Aug 3, 2012
Aug 3, 2012

Albarello Jar with an Aphorism

Albarello Jar with an Aphorism

900s

Earthenware with underglaze decoration

Diameter: 9.7 cm (3 13/16 in.); Overall: 13 cm (5 1/8 in.)

John L. Severance Fund 1996.298

Location

Did you know?

The jar's Arabic inscription written in Eastern Kufic script.

Description

The albarello was a jar designed to hold ointments and drugs for pharmacists. They were produced in the Middle East and Spain, as well as late medieval and Renaissance Italy. Albarellos are usually painted with floral, vegetal, or geometric designs. Arabic inscriptions are less common but here the elegant text reads: “Modesty [comes] from faith, and faith [comes] from Paradise,” attributed to the Prophet Muhammad.

See also
Collection: 
Islamic Art
Department: 
Islamic Art
Type of artwork: 
Ceramic

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