Flask with Molded Decoration. Dimensions: H. 7 1/16 in (18 cm)W. 8 1/4 in (21 cm). Date: 12th-13th century.The shape of this flask indicates that it rested flat on a surface and was tipped to empty its contents. Most of the ceramic vessels for household use from Nishapur were unglazed utilitarian wares, but some were enlivened through molded decoration. This piece, one of the more elaborately decorated examples of the type, features in its central medallion the head of a simurgh, a mythical creature with a doglike head found throughout Iranian art. Museum: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.