Carving
Unknown Artist
9th–14th century
Medium
Ivory; incised and painted
Dimensions
W. 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm) L. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm) D. 9/16 in. (1.4 cm)
Classification
Ivories and Bone
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, 1886
Accession Number
86.11.258
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite ivory carving, hailing from the Islamic world between the 9th and 14th centuries, captures the mastery of miniature artistry in a remarkably small form—measuring just 1¾ inches long, 1⅛ inches wide, and 9/16 inches deep. Crafted from elephant ivory, it was meticulously incised with fine lines to create intricate details, then enhanced with paint for vibrant color and depth. Such techniques were hallmarks of Islamic ivories, prized for their portability and refinement, often adorning personal objects like handles, boxes, or amulets. Featured in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's I...