What documented Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) looks like
Reference photographs of documented Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) pieces, credited to their sources. Compare construction, surface and wear with any piece you are offered — a resemblance is not proof of origin.
Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) at a glance
| Persian name | زرینفام |
| Category | Ceramics · Lustre-painted ceramics |
| Main techniques | — |
| Typical materials | frit-body |
| Places of making | kashan |
| Current vitality | Endangered |
Understanding Lustreware (Zarrin-fam)
What Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) is and how it is made
History
Kashan lustre tiles and vessels of the 12th–14th centuries are among the most closely studied Iranian ceramics; signed and dated pieces anchor much of the chronology.
Technique
A glazed and fired stonepaste body is painted with a silver-and-copper compound, then refired at a lower temperature with restricted oxygen so a thin metallic film forms.
Collecting and identification
Lustre wears easily; restoration, overpainting and composite tile panels are common in older collections.
This guidance is educational only and is not an authentication or valuation service.
General background on the craft, not a statement about any individual object; dates and attributions summarise common positions in the literature and remain under review. Read the full Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) entry.
Before you buy: what to inspect
- Look at the unglazed foot ring — it shows the body clay (red earthenware or white stonepaste).
- Hand-painted decoration has slight variation in line weight and colour; transfers look perfectly even.
- Tap gently: a dull sound may indicate a hidden crack or old repair.
- Examine the glaze under raking light for crazing, chips and retouching.
Typical materials: frit-body.
Red flags: copies and 'Persian style' imports
- Decal or transfer printing sold as hand-painted.
- Artificial ageing (dirt rubbed into new pieces sold as antique).
- Antique claims with no provenance.
A genuine Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) piece should come with a named place of making in Iran (often kashan) and a clear statement that it is handmade.
Questions to ask the seller
- Is the decoration hand-painted?
- Is the glaze food-safe (lead-free)?
- Has the piece been restored?
What affects the price
| Hand-painting and detail |
| Size |
| Workshop or maker |
| Age and provenance |
| Condition |
Care and cleaning
- Treat decorative and older pieces as display-only unless the maker confirms food safety.
- Wash by hand in lukewarm water with mild soap; avoid dishwashers.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes, which cause cracking.
Storage
- Store with soft padding between pieces.
- Keep away from shelf edges and vibration.
Shipping
Ask for double-boxing with padding; fragile pieces are best insured.
Disclaimer
This guide is educational. It cannot confirm that any particular object is genuine, old or valuable. For important purchases, ask an independent specialist. Read the full Lustreware (Zarrin-fam) entry.