Persian lustreware: metallic glazes from Kashan to today

How lustre works

A paint of silver and copper compounds is applied over a fired glaze, then refired in a reducing kiln. Metal particles form a thin film that shimmers gold, brown or ruby depending on light.

History

Kashan potters of the 12th–14th centuries made lustre tiles and vessels for palaces and shrines; the word kashi for tile is often linked to the town. Lustre was revived in Qajar times and again by studio potters.

Collecting notes

• Genuine medieval pieces are museum material; many market examples are restored or composite
• Look for even iridescence rather than gold paint
• Ask for thermoluminescence testing on high-value early ceramics
• Contemporary revival pieces are a sound way to own the look

A note on this guide

This is a general introduction written by the CraftPersia editorial team and has not yet been reviewed by a specialist. Workshop practice varies between towns and families; treat dates and figures as approximate and confirm details with makers, museums or published scholarship before relying on them.