Pilgrim Flask

Unknown

17th century · Copper (tombak); cast, engraved and gilded · Islamic Art

Imitating the shape of more portable leather prototypes, this so-called pilgrim flask is cast in copper. Originally covered in a type of gilding referred to as tombak, this piece still displays traces of its once golden sheen. Leather flasks were a standard part of equestrian equipment, and were popular among the Ottomans. Luxury examples such as this, however, probably served as emblems of rank.

Artist

Unknown

Date

17th century

Medium

Copper (tombak); cast, engraved and gilded

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Alastair B. Martin, Schimmel Foundation Inc., Mr. and Mrs. Jerome A. Straka, Margaret Mushekian, and Edward Ablat Gifts, and Louis E. and Theresa S. Seley Purchase Fund for Islamic Art, 1984