Figurine of a Bovine

Unknown

12th century · Stonepaste; transparent turquoise glaze (iridized) · Islamic Art

The relatively simple and unadorned style of Syrian figurines, as well as their often iridized and whitened glaze, could not be “improved” by early twentieth-century restorers. Objects like this figurine did not meet the taste of collectors to the same extent as the more extravagant Iranian works (whether medieval or modern). As a result, fewer Syrian figurines are present in today’s collections and displays, and their cultural background needs more research.

Artist

Unknown

Date

12th century

Medium

Stonepaste; transparent turquoise glaze (iridized)

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Theodore M. Davis Collection, Bequest of Theodore M. Davis, 1915