Rock Crystal Box

Unknown

18th century · Rock crystal; inlaid with gold, inset with rubies · Islamic Art

This intimately-sized container, carved from rock crystal, has gold inlay and is inset with rubies. While the original use of this object remains unknown, a similar piece in the collection, made in the same technique but without the hinge, was likely used as a perfume or lime container. Small precious objects were highly valued in Mughal court culture, as they were exchanged as gifts between nobles.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Rock crystal; inlaid with gold, inset with rubies

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

The Moses Lazarus Collection, Gift of Josephine and Sarah Lazarus, 1888–95