ADVENT STAR TILE WITH TWO FIGURES
Star-shaped tile with two figures drinking
This star-shaped fritware tile was made in Iran in the 13th century.
On the tile are two seated figures, dressed in richly patterned tunics and enjoying a drink together. The figurative design suggests that the tile was likely used in private and secular architecture, perhaps in the residence of a member of the court.
Fritware is a white ceramic made largely from quartz, with smaller amounts of glass and fine white clay. It appeared in its most refined form in Syria and Iran in the 12th century, but potters in Egypt had been experimenting with it since at least the previous century.
Star-shaped fritware tile
c. 1271–1300
Iran
20cm across
EA1978.1560
Not currently on display
