Publication Date
Probably the 10th/16th century
Publication Place
-
Victoria and Albert Museum
Subject
Engraved ivory.
Type
Other
Language
Undetermined
Digital
Yes
Manuscript
No
Physical Dimensions
الطول: 13 سم؛ العرض: 4.6 سم
Library
Museum With No Frontiers
Library Asset ID
269–1895
Record ID
object;ISL;uk;Mus02;50;ar
Library Location
Victoria and Albert Museum
Date
Probably the 10th/16th century
Notes
A dagger handle made of ivory, engraved with arabesque patterns, and two narrow horizontal bands bearing circular patterns. Ottoman works of art on ivory are considered relatively rare, unlike other periods in which this type of art was introduced, such as during the rule of the Umayyads of Spain. The pieces made were exquisite, and included mirror handles, parts of belts, and dagger handles, such as this piece. The surface has been engraved with arabesque patterns that are strongly reminiscent of the style known as “Baba Naqash,” a distinctive Ottoman style that relied on traditional Islamic arabesque and combined it with Chinese elements. It continued to be popular on other manufacturing materials long after its use on ceramics ceased. The British Museum has a similar dagger handle (registry number OA 409), and the Hungarian National Museum also has a similarly decorated silver-gilt handle (registry number 55.3237) made in Hungary during its Ottoman rule. She created such pieces for the rich and powerful.
Sample Text
Barry Wood “Dagger Fist” in Discover Islamic Art. Museum Without Borders, 2026. https://islamicart.museumwnf.org/database_item.php?id=object;ISL;uk;Mus02;50;ar
