Ewer base with Zodiac medallions

Title: Ewer base with Zodiac medallions

Date: first half 13th century

Geography: Probably made in Iran

Medium: Brass; engraved, inlaid with silver and copper

Dimensions: H. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm)
Diam. 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm)

Classification: Metal

Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891

Accession Number: 91.1.530

Description

The full zodiacal cycle is depicted in the twelve medallions on the facets of this vessel. It also has three inscriptional bands, each in a different calligraphic style, that express traditional blessings to the owner. Here, Gemini (al-jawza, "the twins") appears as a single body with two heads, an unusual variation on its typical depiction as twin brothers.

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