Encounter a millennium of Persia: a fine ceramic exhibition
See the Persian artifacts exhibition at the Lüshun Museum. The highlight is the exquisite ceramics. Persian ceramics may not be as delicate as Chinese ones, but they have a unique exotic charm and are not to be missed.
In the 16th–17th centuries, Iranian artisans imitated Chinese porcelain, especially monochrome, blue-and-white, and celadon wares. After the 18th century, Iran’s pottery industry declined in both quality and output, with the market flooded by ceramics imported from Europe, China, and Japan.
However, from an artistic perspective, the ceramics in this exhibition are outstanding. These pieces left the deepest impression on me:
Figures 15–18: slender-necked pottery vase with iridescent overglaze decoration and human figures
Pottery. 12th–13th century AD
Every detail of this vase is fascinating, especially the delicate depiction of the figures.
Judging by its shape, this vessel was mainly used to pour liquid into bowls or cups and is generally classified as a vase. Its decoration combines human images with geometric patterns: the lower half features scenes of figures enclosed in multiple polygonal frames, mainly in monochrome iridescent glaze, with small touches of lapis lazuli blue in some frames. The neck is decorated with geometric patterns, and the upper rim has a band of human heads. Based on its style, this piece was very likely made in Kashan, known for its fine pottery production.
Figure 3: porcelain vase imported from France
Porcelain. Qajar dynasty (18th–19th century AD)
Porcelain vase imported from France with
Reza Abbasi Museum
Portrait of a Qajar king
This small French white porcelain vase has a luxurious and precious base. The body features dragon-shaped double handles, one of which is damaged. The outer wall and parts of the interior rim are decorated with intricate patterns. The belly shows a half-length portrait of Qajar king Fath-Ali Shah in an oval frame, surrounded by gold geometric patterns. A raised pearl pattern encircles part of the vase, adding to its splendor. According to the museum catalog, this piece was originally imported from France and used as a custom luxury item by Qajar nobility or the upper class.
Figure 4: this water pipe vase is from the Safavid period, combining underglaze blue and overglaze iridescent decoration, most likely produced in Kerman city. The outer wall is adorned with complex floral, shrub, scroll patterns, and seated human figures. The main decoration is underglaze blue, imitating Chinese blue-and-white porcelain; parts are overglaze iridescent, an innovation by Iranian potters.
The water pipe was a tool for smoking tobacco used by Iranians. Its exact origin is unclear, but there is abundant historical and physical evidence from the Safavid period, including this piece.
Figure 5: Sultanabad style
Flying bird motif iridescent glazed pottery bowl
Pottery. Ilkhanate (13th–14th century AD)
The interior depicts flying birds resembling geese, surrounded by repeated floral and plant patterns. The main colors are gray, black, and cobalt blue on a white background. The birds’ bodies are decorated with blue dot patterns, giving a light and graceful feel. This type of animal motif is typical of Sultanabad ware from the Ilkhanate period.
The current exhibition "Encounter a millennium of Persia" at the Lüshun Museum is a rare opportunity you should definitely visit!