Step into the visual culture of medieval Iberia to explore how a simple medicinal jar can become a “cognitive trap.” In this episode, we examine the “technology of enchantment” through a comparison of two 14th and 15th-century ceramic vessels, known as albarelli, held at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Drawing on the medieval Arabic concept of Ajab—a profound sense of wonder or marvel triggered by things so intricate they “escape immediate comprehension”—we investigate how Nasrid-influenced lustreware was designed to entrap the beholder’s gaze. We discuss the work of anthropologist Alfred Gell, who described these complex patterns as “bristling hooks” that slow down perception, holding the viewer in a state of “unfinished business”.

The discussion traces the history of these objects from their roots in Persian and Abbasid craftsmanship to the workshops of Malaga and Valencia, where patronage shifted, and designs evolved. We contrast the “cognitive stickiness” of the heavily Islamic-influenced Albarello 1 with the more Gothic, vegetal patterns of Albarello 2, exploring why the sense of Ajab eventually declined as the last Caliphate of Al-Andalus fell and production oriented toward a Christian mass market.

Join us as we ponder how these shimmering, iridescent vessels do more than just hold medicine—they command our time, sway our imagination, and move the soul toward contemplation. If you know what you’re looking at.

Hosted by AI trained on an essay by Alfred Portman

Arts editor Alfred Portman speaks to the Mexican artist and illustrator Miguel Carranza. Fresh from Guadalajara, Miguel recently had his debut exhibition at L’Escargot, Soho, London. Loosely based on the Proust Questionnaire, we attempt to explore Miguel’s inner world.

The Pett Review’s first podcast centres around a discussion based on an essay by Alfred Portman, Performing Heritage: Country House Tourism and the British Nobility. The discussion explores the evolving nature of authenticity within England’s private country houses. Focusing on estates such as Chatsworth House, Highclere Castle, and Mapperton, the episode examines how owners curate and perform history for contemporary audiences. From immersive seasonal spectacles to the global influence of Downton Abbey, the discussion unpacks the intersection of tourism, performance, and commodification—inviting listeners to reflect on what we mean by authenticity in the postmodern country house visit.