Lot 342: **NO RESERVE**
**NO RESERVE**
A Pair of Islamic Figural Ceramic Chess Bishops, 19th Century.
A pair of Islamic ceramic chess bishops modelled in figural form, each represented as a standing male figure wearing a tall conical headdress and long flowing robes. The figures are shown holding a staff or crozier diagonally across the chest, the hands carefully defined against the body.
Both pieces are covered in a deep cobalt-blue glaze with areas of surface craquelure and natural earthen accretions adhering throughout. The glaze pools slightly within the carved folds of the drapery, accentuating the vertical lines of the robes and the stylised treatment of the beard and facial features. The faces are rendered with prominent brows, almond-shaped eyes, and defined noses, giving each figure a solemn and dignified expression.
The reverse sides are more simply modelled, with smooth tapering backs and subtle shaping to indicate the fall of the garment. The bases are flat and unglazed along the lower edge, showing areas of wear consistent with use.
H: Approximately 8cm
Provenance: From a distinguished European private collection.
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