Basin
Unknown Artist
early 14th century
Medium
Brass; inlaid with silver
Dimensions
H. 4 7/16 in. (11.3 cm) Diam. 20 7/16 in. (51.9 cm)
Classification
Metal
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
Accession Number
91.1.590
Art Historical Context
This elegant brass basin, crafted by an unknown artist in the early th century, exemplifies the metalworking traditions of the Islamic world. Measuring just over 4 inches high and20 inches in diameter, was likely used for ritual handwashing during meals or ablutions, a common household item elevated to art through its luxurious materials. The brass body, skillfully inlaid with silver—a technique known as damascening—created shimmering contrasts and intricate designs, showcasing the era's advanced craftsmanship and attention to decorative detail. In the context of Islamic art, such basins held...