Figure of Harpy

12th–early 13th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 453
The harpy, or fantastic human-headed bird, was a common motif in many parts of the Muslim world. In Iran it was adapted in the twelfth century as a motif on wares in a variety of media. This example is unusual for its large size.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Figure of Harpy
  • Date: 12th–early 13th century
  • Geography: Made in Iran
  • Medium: Stonepaste; luster-painted on opaque white glaze, molded and applied decoration
  • Dimensions: H. 25 1/4 in. (64.1 cm)
    W. 22 in. (55.9 cm)
  • Classification: Ceramics
  • Credit Line: Cora Timken Burnett Collection of Persian Miniatures and Other Persian Art Objects, Bequest of Cora Timken Burnett, 1956
  • Object Number: 57.51.1
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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