Fragment of Carved Wood Panel with Two Birds

Unknown

11th–12th century · Wood; carved · Islamic Art

The two birds on this panel have long legs and are shown as if opening their wings; their wide tail suggests that they may be peacocks. Similar small rectangular panels with figural representation were widely employed in the architectural furniture in Fatimid and Ayyubid Cairo, for example in doors or church screens. The closest parallel for this example is a screen from the Sitt Barbara Church in Cairo (possibly made in 1072–75).

Artist

Unknown

Date

11th–12th century

Medium

Wood; carved

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Bequest of Carolyn Kane, 2015