Mortar

12th–13th century
Not on view
The drop-shaped as well as the square bosses in high relief give this mortar a bold and powerful appearance while the arabesques incised within the sections framed by inlaid copper lines prelude to the complex yet delicate surface decoration of later times. The inscriptional band wishes "prosperity and satisfaction and peace and happiness and blessings and long life to the owner".

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Mortar
  • Date: 12th–13th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran
  • Medium: Bronze; cast and engraved, inlaid with copper
  • Dimensions: Gr. H. 5 7/8 in. (14.9 cm)
    Max. Diam. (at base): 7 3/16 in. (18.2 cm)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1971
  • Object Number: 1971.41
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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