Antique Persian Ceramic Plate Kerman 1868 Qajar Islamic 1285

This is an antique Persian ceramic plate from Kerman, Persia, dated 1285 AH (1868 CE), during the Qajar period. This antique Persian ceramic plate is made in a bowl-like form and features a hand-painted central medallion in brown slip with Persian calligraphy in white, written in traditional Nastaʿlīq script. The inscription is a commemorative dedication honouring a religious scholar, framed by a geometric black-and-white border with a hand-drawn interlaced motif. The reverse bears the word "Kerman" (كرمان) and the Hijri date ۱۲۸۵ (1285) in underglaze cobalt blue.

The glaze shows signs of its age with bluish glaze pooling and surface variation near the base, indicative of 19th-century firing methods. The stylized decoration and devotional message suggest that this antique Persian ceramic plate may have been commissioned in memory of a respected figure, possibly for display in a domestic, religious, or funerary context.

Origin: Kerman, Persia

Date: 1285 AH / 1868 CE (Qajar period)

Material: Glazed earthenware

Decoration: Hand-painted calligraphy and geometric borders

Inscription (Persian):
جناب
حاجی ملا حسین
بن ملا کریم
بیگ مرحوم
ادام الله برکاته

Translation:
"The Honorable Hajji Mullah Hossein, son of Mullah Karim Beyg (the late) — may God perpetuate his blessings."

Dimensions: Approx. 10" diameter x 1 3/4" high at its edge

Condition: This antique Persian ceramic plate is in very good condition with the exception of two small edge chips (see last two close-up photos). Otherwise, displays beautifully with original imperfections original to production methods of the 19th century

This is an interesting and rather unique antique Persian ceramic plate - uncommon!