Pierced Globe

Unknown

late 13th–early 14th century · Brass; spun and turned, pierced, chased, inlaid with gold, silver, and black compound · Islamic Art

Designed as an incense burner, this globe once hung from a chain. Inside the hinged body is a small cup, slung on three rings (gimbals) to stabilize the burning coal or incense in the suspended container. The inscription bands do not name the object’s owner, but repeat a string of epithets lauding him.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 13th–early 14th century

Medium

Brass; spun and turned, pierced, chased, inlaid with gold, silver, and black compound

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917