Flask

Unknown

10th–11th century · Rock crystal; carved · Islamic Art

Rock crystal was one of the most treasured materials at the Fatimid court. Imported from afar, the material was endowed with magical properties. Because of the hardness of the material, carving such smoothly beveled vegetal designs in rock crystal required tremendous skill and patience. This flask probably served as a perfume container.

Artist

Unknown

Date

10th–11th century

Medium

Rock crystal; carved

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of George D. Pratt, 1931