Islamic ArtWoodlate 14th–16th centuryFinial, possibly from a Cenotaph is a wood from Turkey or Iran created in late 14th–16th century using this finial was turned on a lathe from a single piece of wood to form the basic… measuring H. 13 in. (33 cm) Max. Diam. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm) — now part of the Islamic Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | This finial was turned on a lathe from a single piece of wood to form the basic shape of a knob separated from the body by a short neck, leading down into a cylindrical base. Carved in low relief, the monumental yet softly rounded thuluth inscription carries the same weight as the large-scale arabesque decoration with interlacing rumi or split-palmette leaves and trefoil-like flowers. The Arabic inscription proclaims the Shi’a profession of fait: “There is no God but God; Muhammad is the Prophet of God and ‘Ali is the friend of God.” |
| Dimensions | H. 13 in. (33 cm) Max. Diam. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm) |
| Classification | Wood |
| Department | Islamic Art |
| Credit Line | Louis E. and Theresa S. Seley Purchase Fund for Islamic Art and Rogers Fund, 1988 |
| Date | late 14th–16th century |
Historical Context
Geography
Origin: Turkey or Iran. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph?
Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph is housed in the Islamic Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph created?
Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph dates to late 14th–16th century.
What material is Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph made from?
Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph is crafted from this finial was turned on a lathe from a single piece of wood to form the basic shape of a knob separated from the body by a short neck, leading down into a cylindrical base. carved in low relief, the monumental yet softly rounded thuluth inscription carries the same weight as the large-scale arabesque decoration with interlacing rumi or split-palmette leaves and trefoil-like flowers. the arabic inscription proclaims the shi’a profession of fait: “there is no god but god; muhammad is the prophet of god and ‘ali is the friend of god.”.
Where does Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph originate?
Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph originates from Turkey or Iran.
Is Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph in the public domain?
Finial, possibly from a Cenotaph is in the public domain and can be freely used.