Antique handmade Clay Bowls pottery bowl plate Dish from Swat valley Pakistan, South Afghanistan Region. Large handmade rustic pottery bowl glazed with colored glazes (in this case a vibrant braun or green) to achieve a mottled color-on-color spongeware appearance. The primitive nature of the bowls is amplified by the unglazed underside that reveals its terra cotta clay base. As these are vintage pieces, occasional dings and chips are consistent with age. In a land like Afghanistan, potters still throw off the hump, using rough local clay mixed with vegetable fibre, grog and quartz. This mix, while adding strength to the structure while drying, and lightness as the fibre burns out in the kiln, can however result in pits in the surface, if the matter that burns out blows out instead! Unlike glazes used in the west, most potters in Afghanistan and Swat valley pakistan stick to a few traditional recipes, rather than having the luxury of experiments. The bowl is completely preserved, only chips on the inside and in the middle of the upper edge, not restored. Glaze in good condition. PLEASE SEE PHOTOS OF IMPERFECTIONS. All items come from a smoke free home. Note: All pictures are of the actual item you will receive, we do not use stock photos unless otherwise indicated. Please send a message to request. All items are carefully and professionally packaged for safe arrival to you. If you have a question do not hesitate to send me a message. I strive for great communication and 100% feedback. I will respond as quickly as possible.