Panel
Unknown Artist
14th–15th century
Medium
Wood; inlaid with plain and carved ivory
Dimensions
Ht. 2 13/16 in. (7.2 cm) W. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm) D. 5/8 in. (1.6 cm)
Classification
Wood
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1907
Accession Number
07.236.102
Art Historical Context
This exquisite wooden panel, dating to the 14th–15th century, exemplifies refined craftsmanship of Islamic art. Measuring just 2⅞ × 2¼ inches, it is a delicate example of wood inlaid with both plain and intricately carved ivory—a technique that demanded exceptional precision. Artisans would carefully cut recesses into the wood and fit the ivory pieces flush, creating luminous contrasts that catch the light and highlight geometric or arabesque patterns typical of the era. In the Islamic world during this period, such panels often adorned luxury objects like caskets, furniture, or mirror cases,...