Plate decorated with classic scroll border, Lê dynasty, 14th century, stoneware decorated in iron black, 5.5 cm x 32.0 cm, Gift of Anthony Odillo Maher 1998, 10.1998. Art Gallery of New South Wales , Sydney (C) Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney
Bowl with stylised floral decoration and calligraphic design on outer rim, Lê dynasty, late 14th century-15th century, Vietnam, stoneware with underglaze iron black decoration, chocolate brown wash on base, 8.1 x 16.5 cm. Gift of Dr John Yu & Dr George Soutter 2002, 165.2002. Art Gallery of New South Wales , Sydney (C) Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney
Wares decorated in underglaze iron black represent a large class of trade ceramics produced in numerous kilns around the Hanoi region from the 1300s to 1500s. Wide-mouthed bowls are the early dominant export type, as evidenced by the discovery of similar pieces in Sulawesi. The decoration on the plate typically comprises a running scroll around the rim and a single full petalled flower (perhaps a chrysanthemum) in the centre, all summarily drawn in underglaze iron black. Pieces such as these bear comparison with contemporary Thai ceramics and there must have been some kind of relationship between the two countries. The use of a brown wash on the unglazed base is a feature unique to Vietnamese ceramics.
The Asian Collections, AGNSW, 2003, pg.301.