Double-Sided Tombstone

Unknown

10th century and dated A.H. 646/1248–49 CE · Marble; carved · Islamic Art

This marble tombstone is carved on both sides: on the side on view, a Qur'anic verse (Sura 3:18) is inscribed in robust kufic script, characteristic of the Fatimid period. More than two centuries later, the stone was reused, again as a tomb marker. It was inverted and carved with an inscription that includes a death date of 1248–49, framed within an arch on columns with rosettes in the spandrels and a lamp suspended from its apex.

Artist

Unknown

Date

10th century and dated A.H. 646/1248–49 CE

Medium

Marble; carved

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, James and Diane Burke Gift, in honor of Dr. Marilyn Jenkins-Madina, 2010