Mosque lamp

14th century

Not on view

The technique of polychrome enameled glass emerged in the late 12th century, with centers in Syria, Egypt and Northern Mesopotamia. This type of mosque lamp, the somewhat unrefined decoration of which consists of the repetition of the word al-'alim ("the learned") and of the conventional peony design, probably represents objects produced in large number for the market rather than a specific commission. Nonetheless, the market value for enameled glass was certainly high and only affluent individuals could afford it.

Artwork Details

Title: Mosque lamp
Date: 14th century
Geography: Attributed to Egypt or Syria
Medium: Glass, colorless with brownish tinge; free blown; enameled with red, blue, white, yellow, and green; gilded; six loops for suspension and foot attached.
Dimensions: H. 11 1/16 in. (28.1 cm)
Max. Dia. 7 5/16 (18.6 cm)
Classification: Glass
Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Object Number: 17.190.992
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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Mosque Lamp for the Mausoleum of Amir Aydakin al-'Ala'i al-Bunduqdar, Glass; blown, folded foot, applied handles, enameled, and gilded — Mosque Lamp for the Mausoleum of Amir Aydakin al-'Ala'i al-Bunduqdar
shortly after 1285

Tray with Sun Symbol, Brass; cast, chased, engraved, inlaid with silver and gold — Tray with Sun Symbol
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