Fragment of a Processional Standard ('Alam)

Unknown

late 16th century · Brass with relief and pierced decoration · Islamic Art

Although it has lost its surrounding edge and crest of splayed finials, the heart of this monumental ‘alam still remains. Pious inscriptions in thuluth relief and mirrored arrangements provide the beginning of a prayer for Shi’a imams, and mention names of the Prophet Muhammad and his family. Delicately pierced designs allow pinpricks of light to decorate the surface of the standard and also its shadow.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 16th century

Medium

Brass with relief and pierced decoration

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Terence McInerney, 2012