Stamp Seal

Unknown

18th century · Silver; cast and engraved · Islamic Art

The punctured stem of this stamp seal suggests that a well-to-do individual may have worn it as a pendant. The star includes the names of the Rashidun ("Rightly Guided") caliphs and the Prophet Muhammad. The names of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus and their dog Qitmr, the subject of the miraculous story from the Sura al-Kahf (Of the Cave, 18) from the Qur’an, which is often revered for its talismanic qualities, imbue the stamp and its impression with a protective aura.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Silver; cast and engraved

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Bequest of Edith Aggiman, 1982