11th century
Africa
Object qualities
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Objectinterior decoration: Panel
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Type of arts & crafts
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MediumWood (teak); carved
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SizeH. 13 3/4 in. (34.9 cm) W. 8 15/16 in. (22.7 cm) D. 11/16 in. (1.7 cm) Object with mount: L. 14 1/8 in. (35.9 cm) W. 9 1/8 in. (23.2 cm) D. 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm)
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Geography detailsMade in
Africa -
Country today
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Date11th century
Source of information
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Type of sourceDatabase “Metropolitan Museum of Art”
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Fund that the source refers toMetropolitan Museum of Art
Description
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This panel, probably from a wooden door, is deeply carved with two symmetrical horse heads in relief. Attention to detail is evident in the beaded bands and bridles amid arabesques. The piece was carved to different depths in order to produce a pleasing chiaroscuro effect, a technique mastered by Fatimid woodworkers. A companion piece, almost certainly from the same door, is in the Museum of Islamic Art, Cairo.