Between ca. 1830 and 1950 ceramics manufacturers in Europe, primarily Russia and England and secondarily France and Austria, exported large quantities of earthen-wares and porcelain to Iran. Decorations and shapes often were adapted to...
moreBetween ca. 1830 and 1950 ceramics manufacturers in Europe, primarily Russia and England and secondarily France and Austria, exported large quantities of earthen-wares and porcelain to Iran. Decorations and shapes often were adapted to the Iranian market, giving names and dates in Persian and some featuring lines from proverbs. Based on scarce contemporary sources such as eyewitness accounts of travelers, as well as Iranian records, market surveys, diplomatic reports, customs data, and other sources, this article describes how the trade between Europe and Iran developed, its conditions and organization, volume, customer preferences, and competition with other countries. Some of the most important manufacturers producing for the Iranian market are discussed, along with specific examples.
