Earring

Unknown

11th–12th century · Sheet gold with granulation · Islamic Art

Considering the miniature size of most jewels, the work of Islamic goldsmiths was often technically complex and the artistic results, excellent. The cresecent shape of the earring is a symbol of renewal and regeneration, probably derived from the observation of the cycle of the moon. This object is decorated with applied circles formed of rope. The edge of the object is also masked by rope. The traditon of crescent-shaped earrings has a long history in the ancient world.

Artist

Unknown

Date

11th–12th century

Medium

Sheet gold with granulation

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1952