Processional Standard ('Alam)

Unknown

late 17th–early 18th century · Brass · Islamic Art

Standards are used in many parts of the Muslim world by the Shi'a community in processions marking the martyrdom of Imam Husain, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who died at the Battle of Karbala in A.D. 680. The pierced inscription at the center of this example reads "Allah, Muhammad, 'Ali," and these names are repeated in roundels surrounding the main inscription. Dragons encircle the central section and grasp it with their feet, while their tails intertwine at the bottom. Their bodies are pierced, and they have rounded scales on their backs, with nub-like legs.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 17th–early 18th century

Medium

Brass

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Friends of Islamic Art Gifts, 2013