Wood panel, 11th century; Fatimid
Egypt
Carved wood; 13 3/4 x 9 in. (34.9 x 22.9 cm)
Rogers Fund, 1911 (11.205.2)
Egypt
Carved wood; 13 3/4 x 9 in. (34.9 x 22.9 cm)
Rogers Fund, 1911 (11.205.2)
This panel, probably from a wooden door, is deeply carved with two horse heads in relief. Attention to detail is evident in the beaded bands and bridles amid arabesques. The piece was carved to different depths in order to produce a pleasing chiaroscuro effect, a technique mastered by Fatimid woodworkers. A companion piece, almost certainly from the same door, is in the Museum of Islamic Art, Cairo.

















