Luxury Inlaid Container

c. 1250–1350

Northern Iraq, Ayyubid period

Medium

sheet brass, inlaid with silver and gold

Measurements

Diameter: 11.4 cm (4 1/2 in.); Overall: 12 cm (4 3/4 in.); Diameter of box: 10.1 cm (4 in.); Box: 9.7 cm (3 13/16 in.)

Credit Line

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1944.482

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Location

116 Islamic

Description

Metalwork flourished in the 1200s with production centers in Mosul, Damascus, and eastern Anatolia. Along with this container, the nearby ewer and candlestick are examples of the superb pieces produced at this time. Scenes of court life, including banqueting, music, and enthroned figures, decorate the sides and top of the container. The lid is covered in hexagonal swastikas, an ancient solar motif, which is further enhanced by a large sunburst in the center. The calligraphic inscriptions extend wishes for a long life, prosperity, and patience to the owner.