Element from a Stalactite Squinch (Muqarnas)
Probably originally part of a muqarnas, or stalactite squinch, this and other muqarnas elements would have been stacked, in descending size, in the upper corner of a room in order to make the transition to a dome. This, together with objects 38.40.249–38.40.251 are among the earliest known examples of muqarnas, a feature that became quite popular in Islamic architecture in subsequent centuries. The painting on these elements is intriguing, with disembodied eyes that peer out from the vegetal decoration.
Artwork Details
- Title: Element from a Stalactite Squinch (Muqarnas)
- Date: 10th century
- Geography: Excavated in Iran, Nishapur
- Medium: Stucco; painted
- Dimensions: H. 13 9/16 in. (34.4 cm)
W. 11 1/4 in. (28.6 cm)
D: 5 3/4 in. (14.6cm)
Wt. 5 lbs. (2.3 kg) wb - Classification: Stucco
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1938
- Object Number: 38.40.249
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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