Mosque lamp

14th century

Not on view

The technique of polychrome enameled glass emerged in the late 12th century, with centers in Syria, Egypt and Northern Mesopotamia. This type of mosque lamp, the somewhat unrefined decoration of which consists of the repetition of the word al-'alim ("the learned") and of the conventional peony design, probably represents objects produced in large number for the market rather than a specific commission. Nonetheless, the market value for enameled glass was certainly high and only affluent individuals could afford it.

Artwork Details

Title: Mosque lamp
Date: 14th century
Geography: Attributed to Egypt or Syria
Medium: Glass, colorless with brownish tinge; free blown; enameled with red, blue, white, yellow, and green; gilded; six loops for suspension and foot attached.
Dimensions: H. 11 1/16 in. (28.1 cm)
Max. Dia. 7 5/16 (18.6 cm)
Classification: Glass
Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Object Number: 17.190.992
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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Mosque Lamp of Amir Ahmad al-Mihmandar, Glass, colorless with brown tinge; blown, folded foot, applied wick holder and handles, enameled and gilded — Mosque Lamp of Amir Ahmad al-Mihmandar
ca. 1325

Mosque Lamp, Glass; blown, enameled, and gilded — Mosque Lamp
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Mosque Lamp, Glass; enameled — Mosque Lamp
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Perfume Sprinkler (Qumqum), Glass, blue; blown, enameled, and gilded — Perfume Sprinkler (Qumqum)
early 13th century

Footed Bowl with Eagle Emblem, Glass; dip-molded, blown, enameled, and gilded — Footed Bowl with Eagle Emblem
mid-13th century

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