Tombstone of Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al-Salam ibn Sawwar

9th 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.

The elaborate floriated Kufic inscription contains the name of the deceased, Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al Salam ibn Sawwar, and a profession of faith. The pointed arch supported by columns framing the text is similar in form to mihrabs in mosques, which direct the prayers of the faithful toward Mecca. The scrolling vine at the top is a further development of the vine scrolls of the Byzantine tradition.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Exhibition History

Title: Tombstone of Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al-Salam ibn Sawwar
Date: 9th century
Geography: Made in Egypt
Medium: Marble
Dimensions: 28 1/8 x 11 x 1 9/16 in. (71.5 x 28 x 4 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (10783)
Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters