Vase
11th century-12th century (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
A potter made this vessel in Egypt in the 11th or 12th century. It probably dates from the Fatimid dynasty (ruled 969-1171). The potter has incised a pattern of scrollwork into the body and covered it with a green glaze. The uneven rim suggests that the upper part of the vessel has been broken off. We do not know what is was used for, despite the presence of four suspension loops around the shoulder. It may have been a lamp or a censer (a container in which incense is burnt).
Object details
| Categories | |
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Glazed earthenware |
| Brief description | Vase of yellow earthenware with incised decoration under a green glaze, probably made in Egypt, 11th century-12th century |
| Physical description | Vase of yellow earthenware with incised decoration under a green glaze, of large stylised round scrolls that form a three-petalled flower in imitation of Chinese peonies. The uneven rim suggests that this was once a vase whose neck is missing. Four suspension loops remain around the shoulder, suggesting that this object was originally used as a lamp, or incense or perfume burner, though they could also be purely decorative. |
| Dimensions |
|
| Style | |
| Credit line | Given by Major W. J. Myers |
| Object history | Given by Major W.J. Myers. |
| Production | Found at Fustat (Old Cairo) |
| Summary | A potter made this vessel in Egypt in the 11th or 12th century. It probably dates from the Fatimid dynasty (ruled 969-1171). The potter has incised a pattern of scrollwork into the body and covered it with a green glaze. The uneven rim suggests that the upper part of the vessel has been broken off. We do not know what is was used for, despite the presence of four suspension loops around the shoulder. It may have been a lamp or a censer (a container in which incense is burnt). |
| Bibliographic reference | Contadini, Anna, Fatimid Art at the Victoria & Albert Museum. London: V&A Publications, 1998. pp.85-86, plate 33 |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | 1777-1897 |
About this object record
Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.
You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.
Suggest feedback
You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.
Suggest feedback
| Record created | March 10, 2003 |
| Record URL |
Download as: JSONIIIF Manifest
