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Tomb Marker, in the Shape of a Stepped Trapezoidal Prism

12th century
Not on view
This sarcophagus-shaped stone would have been attached to the lid of a grave marker. Each of the long sides has three sections. On either side of the central section, arches enclose a scallop surmounting a trefoil vine. Scallops have funerary associations going back to the Romans that continued into Islamic times. The dense geometric decoration recalls filigree, which would have been familiar where this stone was found, in Hamadan, a jewelry-making center.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Tomb Marker, in the Shape of a Stepped Trapezoidal Prism
  • Date: 12th century
  • Geography: Found/excavated Iran, Hamadan
  • Medium: Limestone; carved in relief
  • Dimensions: H. 14 1/2 in. (36.8 cm)
    W. 19 1/2 in. (49.5 cm)
    D. 11 1/4 in. (28.6 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Purchase, V. Everit Macy Gift, 1930
  • Object Number: 30.112.45
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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