Author
Unknown Unknown (makers)
Publication Date
936
Publication Place
Madinat al-Zahra (made) Madinat al-Zahra (made) -
Subject
Architectural Fittings
Type
Other
Language
Undetermined
Digital
Yes
Manuscript
No
Physical Dimensions
Length: 32cm, Width: 16.5cm, Depth: 6.5cm
Library
Victoria and Albert Museum
Library Asset ID
A.106-1919
Record ID
A.106-1919
Library Location
Middle East Section
Date
936
Notes
The palace of Madinat al-Zahra, near Córdoba, was built after the Umayyad rulers of Spain assumed the title of caliph in 929. Its walls were decorated with plant designs. Court poetry of the period shows that abundant plants symbolised the realmâs fertility, which was ensured by the caliphâs just rule.
Tarihsel bağlam
The Umayyad rulers of Spain assumed the title of caliph, or rightful leader of the Muslim community, in 929. Shortly thereafter, in 936, the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Rahman III founded a palace complex near the city of Córdoba called Madinat al-Zahra. The walls of Madinat al-Zahra were decorated with plant designs, including this fragment of limestone ornament. Court poetry of the period shows that abundant plants symbolised the realmâs fertility, which was ensured by the caliphâs just rule. Patterns based on plants had been used long before the coming of Islam, and they continued to be popular throughout the Islamic period. Over time, the use of elements with recognisable plant forms (like the leaves seen here) gave way to more heavily stylised vegetal patterns. As time passed, the stylised element became dominant.
Malzemeler ve teknikler
Carved limestone Limestone Carving
Fiziksel açıklama
Carved limestone architectural ornament in the form of a group of slender leaves.
Üslup
Islamic Spain
