This limited-edition silk scarf reproduces the intricate decoration of a fourteenth-century lusterware bowl from Manises. Among the Hispanic Society’s greatest strengths in decorative arts is its outstanding collection of lusterware, ceramics whose distinctive metallic iridescence is created by applying metallic oxides onto an already glazed vessel and refiring it in a reproduction kiln deprived of oxygen. At its height, Spanish lusterware enjoyed widespread distribution throughout Europe and won the praises of royal and noble families. Imported from the Middle East, luster vessels had first appeared in the Iberian Peninsula as early as the tenth century, but not until the twelfth century did Spanish potters produce it locally, with Málaga becoming the most important center in the kingdom of Granada. By the mid-fifteenth century, however, most production had shifted north to Manises in the province of Valencia.

On this bowl, an eight-petaled flower decorated with zigzag and trees of life radiates from an eight-pointed star at its center, enclosing two additional concentric eight-petaled flowers. Psuedo-Arabic script in cobalt blue outlines the petals filling in all spaces, typical of the tradition of horror vacui in Islamic art.

• Inspired by: Bowl. Manises, Spain, ca. 1350-1375. Tin-glazed earthenware with luster.
• 100% silk
• Imported
• 64 x 14.5 in.