Stucco Fragment
Unknown Artist
probably 8th–12th century
Medium
Stucco; carved
Dimensions
H. 1 9/16 in. (4 cm) W. 13/16 in. (2 cm) D. 9/16 in. (1.5 cm)
Classification
Stucco
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1948
Accession Number
48.101.1092
Art Historical Context
This delicate stucco fragment, carved by an unknown artist around the 8th–12th century, offers a glimpse into the refined world of Islamic architecture. Measuring just 1 9/16 inches high, 13/16 inches wide, 9/16 inches, it is a tiny survivor from a larger decorative ensemble, likely adorning a mosque, palace or tomb. Stucco, a molded plaster made from gypsum or lime, was prized in the Islamic world for its versatility—lightweight yet durable, it allowed artisans to create intricate carvings that transformed plain surfaces into shimmering displays of artistry. In the Islamic artistic tradition...