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Albarello with Pseudo-Kufic Letters — Spain, Paterna, 14th century

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Written by: Leon LeclercContributing Writer · Manuscripts & Rare Books
Calligraphy (Hat) · Catalogue no. 19773
Spain, Paterna, 14th century

Albarello with Pseudo-Kufic Letters

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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The Muslim occupation of Spain brought the arts and skills of the Islamic world to Europe and led to the flowering of ceramics throughout the continent. This vessel was made in Paterna, near the Christian port of Valencia. Its design and decoration, featuring a band of pseudo-Kufic (fake Arabic) letters, suggests a strong Muslim influence. The subtle blend of the Islamic and Spanish known as Hispano-Moresque.

Artist / MakerSpain, Paterna, 14th century
Date1300s
Culture / OriginSpain, Paterna, 14th century
Mediumtin-glazed earthenware (maiolica)
DimensionsOverall: 21.6 cm (8 1/2 in.)
DepartmentMedieval Art
TypeCeramic
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Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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