Lot 95a, Auction 4/12/2026: Miniature 10th C. Islamic Glass Amphoriskos w/ Zigzag

$260.00

In stock

Ancient Near East, Islamic, ca. 10th to 12th century CE. A jewel of early Islamic glass artistry, this miniature amphoriskos glows with quiet elegance. Molded from translucent black glass, the vessel assumes a classic amphora form, with a tapering body, small footed base, and twin loop handles rising to the rim. Around the shoulder, a fine thread of opaque white glass winds in a continuous zigzag pattern, its delicate rhythm evoking the calligraphic grace so prized in Islamic aesthetics. The contrasting palette of black and white reflects a refined understanding of proportion and visual harmony – hallmarks of Islamic glass production during the Abbasid and Fatimid periods. Such diminutive amphoriskoi were likely designed for precious contents – perfumed oils, unguents, or medicinal essences – and may once have served as treasured objects of personal luxury. Size: 1.9″ Diameter x 2″ H (4.8 cm x 5.1 cm); 2.5″ H (6.4 cm) on included custom stand.

The vessel’s compact form and sinuous handles demonstrate the high level of control mastered by glassmakers working in furnaces across the Near East during the medieval centuries. Comparable examples are preserved in the Corning Museum of Glass and the British Museum, attesting to a widespread taste for elegant, small-scale glasswork that blended function with artistry.

Condition: A few surface pressure fissures as shown. Tiny nick to lower end of one handle that is difficult to see. There is a sharp edge/divot just above the white trailing on one shoulder. Otherwise, intact and excellent with scattered earthen deposits in areas.

Provenance: private Dallas, Texas, USA collection; ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA; ex-East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

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