Spherical and Biconical Gold Beads

Unknown

11th century · Gold; filigree and granulation · Islamic Art

These beads feature superb patterns of scrolling vines whose bifurcations elegantly extend the design to fit the required space. The patterns recall those of the beveled style of the ninth century, although these possess clearer lines, perhaps owing to the medium.

Artist

Unknown

Date

11th century

Medium

Gold; filigree and granulation

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Mobil Foundation Inc. Gift; Sheikh Nasser Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah Gift, in memory of Richard Ettinghausen, 1980