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Engraved Lamp Stand with Cartouches and Medallions

16th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 462
This distinctive tall, cylindrical shape is characteristic of a group of Safavid lamp stands which share a similar silhouette and ornamentation. Many are covered with lyrical and mystical verses by celebrated poets of the period, reflecting the important relationship between Persian poetry and the visual arts. Linked cartouches contain arabesques, animal motifs and calligraphic blessings, as well as lines in nasta’liq which read:
"To holy men thy face is light and seeing thy face is my light. Like men of heart I see my light only when near thee. Thou art the aim of the world; without thee it is nothing. I see all the world as a small thing of thee. ...candle; if you don't burn. I am a beggar; one day near thee..."

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Engraved Lamp Stand with Cartouches and Medallions
  • Date: 16th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran
  • Medium: Brass; cast, engraved, and inlaid with black compound
  • Dimensions: H. 10 1/4 in. (26 cm)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
  • Object Number: 91.1.573
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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