Earring, One of a Pair

Unknown

probably 11th–13th century · Gold, filigree, decorated with granulation, and originally set with stones · Islamic Art

These earrings (39.157.1 and .2) are of a known type produced in the 11th–13th centuries in Iraq. The hexagram in the center probably alludes to the apotropaic Seal of Solomon, a motif which is found on other objects from this period and place. According to legend, King Solomon received the Seal in the form of a signet ring directly from God, which gave him the power to command animals, and supernatural beings (jinn). The Seal of Solomon became a popular talismanic motif throughout the Islamic world and can be found on the surfaces of many objects.

Artist

Unknown

Date

probably 11th–13th century

Medium

Gold, filigree, decorated with granulation, and originally set with stones

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1939