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Figurine

late 10th–12th century

Not on view

During both the Byzantine and the Islamic periods, female images signified abundance, fertility, intellectual pursuits, deities, and cities. Women also appear as court entertainers such as dancers, musicians, and courtesans.
Figurines with large almond-shaped eyes and decoration in black with S shapes, dots, hearts, and circular motifs are characteristic of Fatimid Egypt. They may have been associated with celebrations.

Figurine, Bone, carved; painted with black organic material — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Figurine

Date: late 10th–12th century

Geography: Made in Egypt

Medium: Bone, carved; painted with black organic material

Dimensions: 6 1/8 x 2 7/16 in. (15.6 x 6.2 cm)

Classification: Ivories-Bone

Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (10738)

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.