Seljuk oil lamp - Terracotta with turquoise lead glaze/alkaline glaze - Middle East - Medieval period (12th-13th centuries)

Rare Seljuk-era small cup or oil lamp on a footed base with turquoise glaze, 12th-13th century

Rare and authentic archaeological ceramic from the Seljuk period, originating in the medieval Iranian world (12th-13th century). This piece, open-bodied on a footed base, subtly pinched into a pouring spout at the front, presents an architecturally styled silhouette characteristic of Persian productions of that era.

Coated with a rich turquoise alkaline glaze, the surface offers an exceptional excavation patina. It displays superb silvery and pearlescent iridescence, a dense network of age cracks (crackle of the glaze), as well as mineral concretions and traces of ancient use (soot embedded on the spout and body). A highly charming collectible, ideal for lovers of Islamic art and Oriental antiquities.

Object type: Small cup on a footed base / miniature oil lamp

Origin: Seljuk art

Period: Medieval period (12th-13th century)

Material: Earthenware with turquoise alkaline glaze

Technical specifications

Height: 6.2 cm

Weight: 105 g

Form: Trilobed cup or pouring-spout on an annular foot

Conservation status

Structure: Solid and stable object, presenting a typological origin. Wear consistent with age at the neck and rim, inherent to antiquity and the archaeological nature of the piece.

Surface: Turquoise glaze with age cracks, iridescent zones, and traces of soot/combustion from the period on the spout. Rough annular base revealing the original paste.

Acquired by the current owner in 2026 in Wavre from Beguinage.
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The seller guarantees and is able to prove that the object was acquired legally. The seller has been informed by Catawiki that he must provide the documents required by the legislation and regulations in force in his country of residence. The seller guarantees that he is authorized to sell/export this object. The seller will provide the buyer with all known information concerning the provenance of the object. The seller ensures that all necessary authorizations have been or will be obtained. The seller will immediately inform the buyer of any delay in obtaining these authorizations.