Bath Scraper

Unknown

12th–13th century · Earthenware; unglazed, molded in relief, painted red · Islamic Art

Prolonged exposure to water and steam in a hammam’s hot rooms loosens dead skin and forces impurities out of the body, which are then wiped or scrubbed away with any number of exfoliating implements, such as a mitt or sponge. A group of ceramic scrapers similar to this one are believed to come from Iran. Their decoration includes a variety of animal, floral, and geometric patterns, suggesting customers could select their own designs.

Artist

Unknown

Date

12th–13th century

Medium

Earthenware; unglazed, molded in relief, painted red

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1926