Publication Date
Abu Jaafar Ahmad Al-Muqtadir (ruled 437-473 / 1046-1081)
Publication Place
-
National Archaeological Museum
Subject
Carved alabaster.
Type
Other
Language
Undetermined
Digital
Yes
Manuscript
No
Physical Dimensions
الارتفاع: 43 سم؛ العرض: 29 سم؛ القطر: 19.5 سم
Library
Museum With No Frontiers
Library Asset ID
50482
Record ID
object;ISL;es;Mus01;7;ar
Library Location
National Archaeological Museum
Date
Abu Jaafar Ahmad Al-Muqtadir (ruled 437-473 / 1046-1081)
Notes
This crown, acquired from the Aljafería in Zaragoza, is derived from the composite model of the classical tradition. Two rows of acanthus leaves control the organization of the field and play the role of a ground for the vegetal decoration. On the surface of each leaf, the decoration is spread out in different, delicately carved shapes. Each side of the crown ornaments also presents a different type of floral decoration; The single-level pallet takes the form of a cross with rounded arms. With the exception of some marble examples, most of the Jafari capitals are made of alabaster, and respond to the Corinthian and Composite styles, and demonstrate a clear development from the Caliphate capital, although the capitals in Zaragoza are more extended, and have a spiral decoration whose refinement decreases to the point of disappearing. On this crown in particular, the controversial influences are no longer evident, and its elaborate and variable shapes respond to the taste of the Taifa Kingdom of Zaragoza. We know that this crown belonged to what undoubtedly constituted Al-Muqtadir’s large reception hall, the “Hall of Marbles”, also called the “Hall of Gold”, on the northern side of the palace. This large, rectangular hall with two side rooms was decorated with marble tiles, alabaster plinths, and engraved plaster panels that covered the walls. This rich decoration reflects the extravagance and extravagance of Al-Muqtadir’s entourage, as the Jaafaria Palace was built under his rule.
Sample Text
Margarita Sánchez Llorente “Column Capital” in Discover Islamic Art. Museum Without Borders, 2026. https://islamicart.museumwnf.org/database_item.php?id=object;ISL;es;Mus01;7;ar
