Ewer

A beaded molding separates the cylindrical neck from the elongated pear-shaped, fluted body, and the body from the ring foot. Both ends of the handle terminate in the head of a bird, probably a duck. Weight: 1039 g.

Historical period(s)
Sasanian period, 500-800
Medium
Silver gilt
Dimensions
H x W x D (overall): 34.6 x 15.5 x 12.2 cm (13 5/8 x 6 1/8 x 4 13/16 in)
Geography
Iran
Credit Line
Gift of Arthur M. Sackler
Collection
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Accession Number
S1987.140
On View Location
Sackler Gallery 21: Feast Your Eyes: A Taste for Luxury in Ancient Iran
Classification(s)
Metalwork, Vessel
Type

Ewer

Keywords
bird, duck, Iran, Sasanian period (ca. 224 - 651)
Provenance
Provenance research underway.
Description

A beaded molding separates the cylindrical neck from the elongated pear-shaped, fluted body, and the body from the ring foot. Both ends of the handle terminate in the head of a bird, probably a duck. Weight: 1039 g.

Published References
  • Najmieh Batmanglij. From Persia to Napa: Wine at the Persian Table. Washington. pg. 60.
  • Alexandra Carpino, Jean M. James. Commentary on the Li Xian Silver Ewer. cat. 11, p. 72.
  • Ann C. Gunter, Paul Jett. Ancient Iranian Metalwork in the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the Freer Gallery of Art. Washington and Mainz, Germany, 1992. cat. 37, pp. 202-4.
Collection Area(s)
Ancient Near Eastern Art
Web Resources
Google Cultural Institute
SI Usage Statement

Usage Conditions Apply

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.

The information presented on this website may be revised and updated at any time as ongoing research progresses or as otherwise warranted. Pending any such revisions and updates, information on this site may be incomplete or inaccurate or may contain typographical errors. Neither the Smithsonian nor its regents, officers, employees, or agents make any representations about the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or timeliness of the information on the site. Use this site and the information provided on it subject to your own judgment. The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery welcome information that would augment or clarify the ownership history of objects in their collections.

citation | Save this image How to download an image | Request Permission | Terms of Use