L’impatto della ceramica cinese sulle produzioni artigianali del Medio Oriente nel primo periodo islamico (VIII-X secolo)

This article deals with the production of high-quality Islamic ceramics in Iraq and Iran during the early Abbasid period, which were made to imitate and limit the use of Chinese imports. The trade of Chinese ceramics began in the 8th century and increased during the 9th and at least the entire 10th century. The strong interest in Chinese pottery, which was particularly valued and indicative of the high social status of its owner, led Islamic potters to produce artefacts that could imitate their peculiar appearance. However, these specimens are no mere imitations, as the high degree of technical skill in researching fabrics and glazes made them competitive with the Chinese prototypes while also developing a specifically identity-based local production. This article provides an overview of the influences and innovations that took place during this period, both from a technological and decorative perspective.