Bowl with Pseudo-inscription. Dimensions: H. 2 13/16 in. (7.1 cm)Diam. 10 1/4 in. (26 cm). Date: 13th century.Typically formatted concentrically, the decoration of Syrian black-and-blue underglaze-painted pieces often features pseudo-inscriptions. Here, the repeated letters, alif-lam, around a circular band against a vegetal scroll, are not merely a decorative device or reflection of a potter's illiteracy. This letter combination held religious significance and appears to have been endowed with magical or talismanic properties. Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.