Head of a Central Asian Figure in a Pointed Cap
Unknown Artist
12th–early 13th century
Medium
Gypsum plaster; modeled, carved
Dimensions
H. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm) W. 5 3/8 in. (13.7 cm) D. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm)
Classification
Stucco-Sculpture
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, 1942
Accession Number
42.25.17
Tags
Art Historical Context
This evocative gypsum plaster sculpture, titled *Head of a Central Asian in a Pointed Cap dates to the 12th–early 13th century captures the refined artistry of Islamic Central Asia. Measuring just 8½ inches high, the piece was meticulously modeled and carved, techniques that allowed artisans to achieve lifelike details in facial features and the distinctive tall, pointed cap. Stucco, a versatile medium made from gypsum plaster, was widely used in the region for architectural decorations like mihrabs, niches, and wall reliefs in mosques and madrasas, offering a lightweight yet durable surface f...