Ewer
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Plated base metal
Dimensions
H. 8 5/16 in. (21.1 cm) Max. Diam. 4 15/16 in. (12.5 cm)
Classification
Reproductions
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, 1885
Accession Number
85.12.6
Art Historical Context
This elegant ewer, a classic vessel for pouring water or liquids, hails from the 19th century and the rich tradition of Islamic metalwork. Crafted from plated base metal—a technique that applied a thin layer of silver or other precious metal over a more affordable base—it exemplifies the era's innovative methods for creating luxurious yet accessible objects. Standing at 8 5/16 inches with a maximum diameter of nearly 5 inches, its graceful form would have been ideal for domestic rituals like ablutions or serving refreshments, common in Islamic households and mosques. As a reproduction acquire...