Mosque Lamp
The mosque lamp shown here is a fine example of Iznik ceramic production in the late sixteenth century, characterized by a palette of brilliant emerald, vibrant blue, and "sealing wax" red, which is applied in relief. The elegant shape echoes that of metal lanterns of the period. Stylized peony blossoms enclosed in scrolling saz leaves in blue with red accents cover the neck of the lantern. The lip is accentuated with a band of half plum flowers, while a narrow chainlike band in red makes the transition between the body and the neck. The design on the body consists of saz motifs in blue framed by intertwining saz designs in red.
Mosque lamps such this were probably not used for lighting but suspended from chains in tombs and mosques. They served to enhance the aesthetic quality and acoustic capabilities of these interiors.
Mosque lamps such this were probably not used for lighting but suspended from chains in tombs and mosques. They served to enhance the aesthetic quality and acoustic capabilities of these interiors.
Artwork Details
- Title: Mosque Lamp
- Date: late 16th century
- Geography: Made in Turkey, Iznik
- Medium: Stonepaste; painted and glazed
- Dimensions: H. 11 3/4 in. (29.8 cm)
Diam. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm) - Classification: Ceramics
- Credit Line: Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
- Object Number: 14.40.731
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
1525–40
mid-16th century
16th century
ca. 1545–55
last quarter 16th century
Related Content
Publications
Books, guides, and catalogues published by The Met.
Free to download
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.