Perfume Sprinkler [Qumqum] with Birds

first half 14th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 454

This perfume sprinkler or qumqum is of a characteristic type with an oblong body and a thin elongated neck, wide above the body and then tapering towards the lip, with enameled and gilded decoration. Although the decoration has faded over time, elements can still be made out. The red outline used throughout the design to create bands of decoration and roundels is the most complete survivor of the original design. Two medallions depicting a bird, once gilded, on a blue background, are drawn on the shoulder. Some remnants of yellow and green enameling and gilding can also be seen in various parts of the body.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Perfume Sprinkler [Qumqum] with Birds
Date: first half 14th century
Geography: Attributed to Egypt or Syria
Medium: Glass; blown, enameled, and gilded
Dimensions: H. 8 in. (20.3 cm)
Max. Diam. 4 15/16 in. (12.5 cm)
Classification: Glass
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1906
Object Number: 06.1036.2
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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