Dish (3) - Three glazed terracotta dishes, Multan, Central Punjab, late 19th century - Without Reservation

Three glazed terracotta plates, Multan, central Punjab, late 19th century

Made in ceramic-fired terracotta and originating from the Multan area, an important artistic center of central Punjab (present-day Pakistan, the region traversed by the Chenab River), these three plates stand out for their color vivacity and the expressive force of the decoration.
The surface, covered by a thick, glossy glaze, is adorned with stylized floral and geometric motifs, executed with dense, substantial enamels that in some areas acquire a pleasant tactile relief. The immediacy and naive freshness of the stroke evoke a popular decorative language, made even more suggestive by the strong color contrast: bright yellow to ochre-orange, emerald green to deep brown.
A characteristic effect is the widespread crazing on the glazed surface, an index of firing technique and elapsed time, which gives the plates an antique patina of great collecting appeal. In the center of each piece the threeSupport points left by the break from the refractories column during kiln firing are recognizable, today without glaze, while the rear clearly shows glaze runoffs that attest to the craftsmanship of the production.
The condition is modest: there are small losses and chipping at the edges, some abrasions and slight glaze flaking (predominantly on the left plate); however, these imperfections do not compromise the legibility of the decorations, which, even in their simplicity, maintain a decorative character of notable immediacy and visual impact.
Made around the end of the 19th century, these plates represent an interesting testimony to popular ceramic production in northwestern India, close to the tastes and artisanal traditions of Punjab. They are works capable of restoring, with their color vivacity and their spontaneous execution, the most authentic essence of everyday ceramic ware elevated to art object.
Measurements:
1st plate on the left, diameter 23.5 cm x 3.2 cm h.;
2nd plate in the center, diameter 24.5 cm x 3.7 cm h.;
3rd plate on the right, diameter 25.5 cm x 4.5 cm h.