The Nabataean tribes first encroached upon Jordan and the surrounding area sometime in the 6th century BC. Thought of originally as a nomadic people they settled in the area, existing as an autonomous kingdom until the 2nd century AD, when they were finally defeated by the Romans. Nabataean pottery can roughly be grouped into two large categories; Fine ware and course ware. These two groups were then split into subcategories, including the fine ware bowls with painted decoration that exemplify the style. Fine ware Nabataean pottery, made exclusively in and around Petra, is categorised by its very thin walls (known as egg-shell pottery), its deep red colouring and painted floral patterns. Course ware remained thicker in its measurements and undecorated.
Nabatean Decorated Twin-Handle Cup
$1,019.67
A fine Nabatean terracotta cup featuring a convex base leading to a curved body with the rim slightly tapering inwards. The walls of the vessel are very thin, a classic characteristic of Nabatean. Two small handles sit on either side attached from the rim to the shoulder. The inside of the bowl is decorated with a delicate vegetal motif, rendered and hand- painted in a darker, brown pigment, slightly faded over time. The motif, which extends from the centre of the bowl, is displayed in alternating bands of sprayed leaves and a single band of painted dots. The outside of the bowl features a wide band of white slip, beginning from the rim.
Provenance: From an important collection of Holy Land pottery formed pre 1988, thence by descent.
Condition: Fine condition, chip to the rim.
In stock
| Weight | 104.2 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 16.5 x H 5.1 cm |
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| Pottery and Porcelain | |
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