Twelve-Pointed Star-Shaped Tile

Unknown

dated A.H. 846/1442–43 CE · Stonepaste; polychrome glaze within black wax resist outlines (cuerda seca technique) · Islamic Art

This star‑shaped tile with interlaced design once graced the walls of the west iwan (vault) of the Madrasa al-Ghiyäthiyya, a religious school completed in 846/1442–43 in the city of Khargird in northeastern Iran. This example was executed in the so‑called cuerda seca (dry cord) technique wherein a greasy material separates the various colored glazes. During the firing process, the greasy line melts, leaving behind an unglazed band between the glazed areas.

Artist

Unknown

Date

dated A.H. 846/1442–43 CE

Medium

Stonepaste; polychrome glaze within black wax resist outlines (cuerda seca technique)

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Philip M. Lydig, 1917