Stucco Fragment
Unknown Artist
probably 8th–12th century
Medium
Stucco; carved (?), painted
Dimensions
H. 9/16 in. (1.5 cm) W. 9/16 in. (1.5 cm) D. 13/16 in. (2 cm)
Classification
Stucco
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1948
Accession Number
48.101.423
Art Historical Context
This delicate stucco fragment, dating to the 8th–12th century, offers a glimpse into the refined architectural artistry of the Islamic world. Measuring just 9/16 inch high, wide, and 13/16 inch deep, it is a tiny survivor from what was likely a larger decorative ensemble in a mosque, palace, orrasa. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 8, it now resides in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Department of Islamic Art, exemplifying the medium's prevalence during the Abbasid and Fatimid eras. Stucco, molded plaster-like material, was prized in Islamic architecture for its versatility in creating intri...