Mar 18, 2021
Mar 18, 2021
Mar 18, 2021
Mar 18, 2021
Mar 18, 2021

Mosque Lamp

Mosque Lamp

1585–95

Fritware with underglaze design

Overall: 30.4 x 19.7 cm (11 15/16 x 7 3/4 in.); Diameter of rim: 19.7 cm (7 3/4 in.)

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1944.287

Location

Did you know?

Fritware is made of ground quartz, glass frit (partially fused glass), and a small proportion of fine white clay to approximate the light color and weight of Chinese porcelain.

Description

Mosque lamps typically functioned as a lampshade, containing an oil lamp inside. Due to the opacity of this Ottoman lamp, it is likely that its primary function was not illumination. Instead, it would have been hung from chains in a mosque or mausoleum to add to the beauty of the space. This lamp is decorated with bright red carnations and blue hyacinths with additional floral and vegetal elements. The turquoise loops would have served for suspension from the ceiling. It is also possible that lamps like this were used as acoustic devices, softening the echo of prayer and discussion within the mosque’s halls.

See also
Collection: 
Islamic Art
Department: 
Islamic Art
Type of artwork: 
Ceramic

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