Tile
Kashan, Iran
Ilkhanid, ca. 1270–1280
Composite body, molded and overglaze luster-painted;
14 3/4 x 14 3/4 in. (37.5 36.2 cm)
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Rogers Fund, 1912 (12.49.4)
With the eyes and interests of a merchant, Marco Polo noticed
the region’s bustling trade;
fabulous metalwares, ceramics, textiles, and gems; and lush
fruit and vegetables. Sharing the Mongols’ dependence
on horses, Marco also recalled in his memoirs the quality
and value of local horses.
