Artheon MuseumArtheonMuseum

Panel

Unknown Artist

14th–15th century

Panel by Unknown Artist

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,...

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