Tile From an Inscriptional Frieze

Unknown

dated A.H. 707 / 1308 CE · Stonepaste; underglaze painted in blue, luster-painted on opaque white ground, modeled · Islamic Art

This tile is one in a series which probably once formed a glittering inscriptional frieze encircling the walls of a 14th-century tomb pavilion located in Natanz, Iran. The cobalt-blue inscription is set against a field of scrolling vines, wherein tiny birds perch amongst leafy foliage, some alighting upon the letters themselves. The frieze likely sat close to eye level, permitting the intricacies of the tile's drawing to be admired, while crowning a dado of equally opulent star- and cross-shaped tiles.

Artist

Unknown

Date

dated A.H. 707 / 1308 CE

Medium

Stonepaste; underglaze painted in blue, luster-painted on opaque white ground, modeled

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Emile Rey, 1912