Artwork Page for Luxury Inlaid Container

Details / Information for Luxury Inlaid Container

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
Public Domain
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Location
116 Islamic
Print

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.
Squat, cylindrical, gold-brown brass container with a lid and silver and gold detailing. In a circle at the container's center sits a stylized, cross-legged person, a band of gold calligraphy (see "Inscriptions") wrapping around the container behind them. Lines in interlocking uppercase "I" shapes pattern the background. The lid has a circular loop on top and hinges hanging down on either side. Winding silver patterns within triangles, interspersed with gold flowers wrap around the edge.

Luxury Inlaid Container

c. 1250–1350

Northern Iraq, Ayyubid period

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