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Head of a Central Asian Figure

12th–13th century
Not on view
This head belonged to a full figure most likely representing a royal attendant (courtier, vizier, or amir) or guard. Similar images have been found in wall paintings of the reception hall of palatine complexes, typically flanking or facing the enthronement area. In their regality and power, suggested on this head by the jeweled headdress, they conveyed the very essence of rulership and authority in the visual arts of the Great Seljuqs and their successor states.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Head of a Central Asian Figure
  • Date: 12th–13th century
  • Geography: Country of Origin Iran
  • Medium: Gypsum plaster; modeled, carved
  • Dimensions: H. 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm)
    W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm)
    D. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm)
    Wt. 37.5 oz. (1063.2 g)
  • Classification: Stucco-Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Islamic Art Gifts, 2014
  • Object Number: 2014.529
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

More Artwork

More Artwork
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Standing Figure with Jeweled Headdress, Gypsum plaster; modeled, carved, polychrome-painted, gilded
Standing Figure with Jeweled Headdress
12th–early 13th century
Head of a Central Asian Figure in a Pointed Cap, Gypsum plaster; modeled, carved
Head of a Central Asian Figure in a Pointed Cap
12th–early 13th century
Standing Figure with Feathered Headdress, Gypsum plaster; modeled, carved, polychrome-painted, gilded
Standing Figure with Feathered Headdress
12th–early 13th century
Seated Tambourine Player, Stucco; molded and painted
Seated Tambourine Player
12th century
Figure of a Predatory Bird, Stonepaste; monochrome glazed
Figure of a Predatory Bird
12th–13th century

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