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Portable Mihrab

10th century

Not on view

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.

Portable Mihrab, Wood — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

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)

Accession Number: isl455

The Met

Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.