Plate
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Papier-maché; painted and lacquered
Dimensions
Ht. 1 9/16 in. (4 cm) Diam. 17 11/16 in. (45 cm)
Classification
Lacquer
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
Accession Number
91.1.738
Art Historical Context
This exquisite 19th-century plate crafted from papier-mâché, painted, and lacquered, exemplifies the refined artistry of Islamic decorative traditions. Measuring just 1 9/16 inches (4 cm) in height but boasting an impressive 17 11/16-inch (45 cm) diameter, its shallow, wide form suggests it served as a ceremonial serving dish or tray, ideal for displaying fruits or sweets in affluent households. The medium of papier-mâché—pulp molded into shape, then meticulously painted and coated with layers of lacquer—allowed artisans to create lightweight yet durable objects with vibrant, glossy finishes....