Earring, One of a Pair
Unknown Artist
12th–13th century
Medium
Gold wire with filigree
Dimensions
H. 1 3/16 in. (3 cm) W. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm) D. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
Classification
Jewelry
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1952
Accession Number
52.4.7
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite gold earring, one of a pair from the 12th–13th, exemplifies the refined artistry of Islamic jewelry during the medieval Islamic world. Crafted from delicate gold wire using the intricate filigree technique—where fine wires are twisted, looped, and soldered into ornate patterns—it measures just 1 3/16 inches high and 3/4 inch wide, yet its depth of 2 3/4 inches suggests a dangling design meant to sway gracefully with movement. Such earrings were likely worn by women of status, adorning earlobes as symbols of wealth and elegance. Filigree, a hallmark of Islamic metalwork from reg...