Kovsh

The kovsh is enameled in delicate, complex patterns, many of which are repeated in units of twelve. Within a circle in the center of the bowl there is a twelve-petaled blossom in blue, white, and pink, which is enclosed by a band of twelve heart shapes, alternatively in green and blue, over a creamy orange ground. Proceeding outward, these are followed by twelve arched fields with stylized floral motifs and strap work over alternatively blue and white grounds. Around the periphery, there is a row of white lozenges and one with blue lozenges over a turquoise background.

The color scheme on both the handle and the prow differ in that the stylized blossoms and vines are in deep green, pale blue, white, and translucent red over a purple ground. Black enamel is also used sparingly throughout. Centered on both faces of the handle is a horse-shaped creature trampling a red and green dragon in a blue circle. Although the patterns differ, both the interior and exterior of the kovsh adhere to similar color schemes. Around the exterior of the kovsh's bowl there is a Slavonic inscription with turquoise lettering over a deep blue ground.

Inscription

Provenance

Provenance (from the French provenir, 'to come from/forth') is the chronology of the ownership, custody, or location of a historical object.

Jean M. Riddell, Washington, D.C. [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 2010, by bequest.