Bowl with Birds and Animals (1913.17)
Bowls like this one were traded during the crusades and served as tableware or decoration in western European households. Some were even placed on the exterior of churches in Italy and elsewhere. This bowl exhibits design elements typical of Islamic ceramics found in the ancient city of Rayy (modern day Iran). Birds and animals, now difficult to make out, appear against deep blues. The bowl is enhanced by metallic luster.
