This lobed bowl is among the finest ceramics produced in medieval Iran. At the centre is a ruler shown in regal pose, seated cross-legged on a throne, dressed in magnificent, polychrome silk clothing and elegant, heeled boots. Miniature paintings such as these on ceramic predate surviving Persian manuscripts, offering a window onto the medieval painters’ art. The sovereign is surrounded by four falconers on galloping horses, a sign of military might.

Inscriptions around the exterior, bestow blessings to the owner of the bowls, such as glory, fortune, victory, peace, preservation, and perpetuation. At table, these words could be read by lifting the delicate vessels and turning them clockwise in the light, bringing a moment of drama to the sensory pleasures of sharing fragrant food, wine, music and conversation. However, the consumer was not a ruler but one who aspired to have the ruler’s power at their table. Rulers typically ate from gold and silver.