Filigree vase, ceramic, leather, enamel and metal, 19th century - Safi, Morocco

Magnificent floor vase made in the typical style of Safi ceramics, dating from the 19th century. It is a piece of white glazed ceramic with blue geometric decorations, filigree appliqués, and leather patches. The leather patches are set into the filigree, adorned with ink drawings and feature small medallions with semi-precious stones at the centre. The decorative programme is typically Moroccan, with geometric and vegetal elements associated with the ceramic tradition of the coastal city of Safi. On the sides of the vase's neck are two handles, one of which is adorned with a leather tassel. The base has been preserved in the white shade of the glaze with some filigree details, and underneath is the artisan's signature in Arabic who created the piece.