Button or Bead
The dot-in-circle motif recalls designs presumed to be of magical significance, most likely an abstract eye to ward off the evil-eye, which serves an apotropaic function. Easily reproduced with a tool and visible in many cultures and times, this symbol may have lost its meaning, and become simply a decorative pattern, or may have one that we have not yet discovered.
Artwork Details
- Title: Button or Bead
- Date: 9th–10th century
- Geography: Excavated in Iran, Nishapur
- Medium: Bone; tinted, incised, and inlaid with paint
- Dimensions: H. 3/16 in. (0.5 cm)
Diam. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm) - Classification: Ivories and Bone
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1938
- Object Number: 38.40.59
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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9th–10th century
9th–10th century
9th–10th century
9th century
9th–10th century
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