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

Object Information
  • 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