Earring

Unknown

probably 11th–13th century · Gold; filligree · Islamic Art

These earrings ( 95.16.2 and .3) were discovered in al-Hillah, Iraq, and are of a known type produced in the 11th –13th centuries. The hexagram in the center probably alludes to the apotropaic Seal of Solomon, a motif which is found on other objects from this period and place. According to legend, King Solomon received the Seal in the form of a signet ring directly from God, which gave him the power to command animals, and supernatural beings (jinn). The Seal of Solomon became a popular talismanic motif throughout the Islamic world and can be found on the surfaces of many objects.

Artist

Unknown

Date

probably 11th–13th century

Medium

Gold; filligree

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, 1895