Tray

Unknown Artist

14th century

Tray by Unknown Artist

Medium

Brass; originally inlaid with silver

Dimensions

H. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm) Diam. 17 15/16 in. (45.6 cm)

Classification

Metal

Department

Islamic Art

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891

Accession Number

91.1.533

Art Historical Context

This elegant 14th-century brass tray, hailing from the Islamic world, exemplifies the exquisite metalwork traditions of the medieval period. Measuring nearly 18 inches in diameter and just over 1 inch in height, it was designed as a shallow serving vessel, likely used affluent households for presenting food, beverages, or offerings during communal gatherings. Its grand scale and refined form reflect the sophistication of Islamic artisans, who crafted such objects as symbols of hospitality and status. Crafted from brass and originally adorned with intricate silver inlays—a technique known as d...

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