Spheroconical Vessel
Unknown Artist
11th–12th century
Medium
Earthenware; stamped, incised, and unglazed
Dimensions
H. 5 in. (12.7 cm) W. 4 in. (10.2 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
Accession Number
74.51.5840
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Islamic Art galleries of the Metropolitan Museum of, this Spherocon Vessel from the 11th–12th century exemplifies everyday artistry of medieval Islamic ceramics. Crafted unglazed earthenware, it a modest 5 inches high and 4 inches wide, its rounded, conical form suggesting practical use—perhaps for holding liquids like oils, perfumes, or rosewater, common in the bustling trade networks of the Islamic world. The vessel's surface bears intricate stamped and incised decorations, techniques that allowed artisans to create textured patterns without the need for costly glazes. Stampi...