Portable Mihrab

10th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Mihrabs are the focal point on the main prayer wall of mosques, directing the prayers of the faithful toward Mecca. Usually they are adorned with Qur’anic verses and patterns related to other decorations in the mosque. This small portable mihrab is inscribed with the names of members of the Prophet Muhammad’s family and of some of the subsequent Shi‘ite imams (leaders), indicating that the owner was a Shi‘ite Muslim. It was used for prayers while traveling or placed under the head of the deceased according to Shi‘ite tradition.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Exhibition History

Title: Portable Mihrab
Date: 10th century
Geography: Made in Egypt
Medium: Wood
Dimensions: 6 1/8 x 3 1/8 in. (15.5 x 8 cm)
Classification: Woodwork
Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (9802)
Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters