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Ablutions Basin of Yemeni Sultan al-Mujahid Sayf al-Din 'Ali

ca. 1321–63
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 454
Although commissioned for a Rasulid sultan of Yemen, this basin reflects prevailing tastes of early fourteenth century Cairo and was clearly produced there or in Damascus, where comparable pieces were created. Bold inscriptions on the wall and rim constitute the central decorative theme, punctuated by medallions featuring lotus blossoms and the Rasulid emblem, a five‑petaled rosette.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Ablutions Basin of Yemeni Sultan al-Mujahid Sayf al-Din 'Ali
  • Date: ca. 1321–63
  • Geography: Attributed to Egypt or Syria
  • Medium: Brass; engraved and inlaid with silver and black compound
  • Dimensions: H. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm)
    Top Diam. 18 3/8 in. (46.5 cm)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
  • Object Number: 91.1.589
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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