Panel

Unknown

14th–15th century · Wood; carved, inlaid with carved and plain ivory and carved ebony · Islamic Art

This small wooden panel probably formed the corner of a larger geometric design composed of many different shapes, including stars, tie-bars, polygonal elements, etc. Two polygonal panels in the collection (07.236.66 & 07.236.67) have similar designs and these three may have come from the same object. Such assemblages were common in Mamluk Egypt for wooden furnishings, as well as in doors and minbars for mosques. Similar designs can also be seen in other media, such as polychrome marble marquetry that was frequently employed as flooring or wall panels. The floor in the Damascus room (1970.170) is a stunning example of such complex design.

Artist

Unknown

Date

14th–15th century

Medium

Wood; carved, inlaid with carved and plain ivory and carved ebony

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1907