Tile Panel with Calligraphic Inscription

Unknown

dated A.H. 1000/1591–92 CE · Stonepaste; polychrome painted under transparent glaze · Islamic Art

Traditional ceramic production in Syria continued after the region came under Ottoman control in the early sixteenth century. Syrian tiles and ceramics of this period are related to Iznik wares, but do not include red in their palette. This large inscription panel was created in Syria for an unidentified mosque. Its calligraphy reads: "The weak servant Kayun ibn 'Abdallah, the sinful, the one in need of God’s mercy, founded this blessed mosque. It was built in the year 1000 [A.H./A.D. 1591–92]." Further examples of Syrian tilework panels flank the entrance to the adjoining gallery.

Artist

Unknown

Date

dated A.H. 1000/1591–92 CE

Medium

Stonepaste; polychrome painted under transparent glaze

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Bequest of Agnes Miles Carpenter, 1958