Pyxis of al-Mughira Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the title of the artwork?

Pyxis of al-Mughira

What culture does the Pyxis of al-Mughira belong to?

Umayyad

What is the date associated with the Pyxis of al-Mughira?

968-1492

What is the content area of the Pyxis of al-Mughira?

Early Europe and Colonial Americas Signup and view all the answers

What material is the Pyxis of al-Mughira made of?

Ivory Signup and view all the answers

What is a pyxis?

Cylindrical box used for cosmetics Signup and view all the answers

To whom was this particular pyxis a gift?

al-Mughira, son of a caliph Signup and view all the answers

Where is the Pyxis of al-Mughira now located?

The Louvre Signup and view all the answers

This artwork is one of the best surviving examples of the royal ivory carving tradition in ___?

Al-Andalus (Islamic Spain) Signup and view all the answers

When did Muslims control the lands of the Iberian Peninsula?

711-1492 Signup and view all the answers

Identify two remarkable monuments of Islamic art found in Al-Andalus.

Great Mosque of Cordoba, Alhambra Palace Signup and view all the answers

Identify four characteristics of ivory that made it highly desirable for the creation of diptychs and pyxides.

Durable, smooth, elegant, easily carved Signup and view all the answers

The Pyxis of al-Mughira is decorated with four ___ which are surrounded by figures and animals.

eight-lobed medallions Signup and view all the answers

What does the image of two men collecting eggs from the nests of falcons symbolize?

Umayyad legitimacy Signup and view all the answers

What does the man with the scepter and flask symbolize?

Umayyad caliph Signup and view all the answers

What does the figure with the fan symbolize?

Abassids Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'aniconic' mean?

The absence of human figures Signup and view all the answers

What do lions symbolize in Islamic art?

The victorious (the Umayyads) Signup and view all the answers

To what does the date-palm allude?

Lost lands of the East Signup and view all the answers

What were the circumstances of al-Mughira's death?

After the death of his brother he may have been a threat to Hisham II and he was executed Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pyxis of al-Mughira Overview

The Pyxis of al-Mughira is a cylindrical box designed primarily for cosmetics.
It was crafted during the Umayyad period, highlighting the artistic achievements of Islamic Spain.

Historical Context

The artwork dates from 968 to 1492, a significant time when Muslims held dominion over the Iberian Peninsula (711-1492).
Al-Mughira, son of a caliph, was the recipient of this exquisite gift.

Artistic Significance

Now housed in The Louvre, this piece exemplifies the royal ivory carving tradition in Al-Andalus (Islamic Spain).
The craftsmanship reflects a blend of cultural influences from the Islamic world combined with local traditions.

Material and Attributes

Made from ivory, known for its durability, smooth texture, elegance, and ease of carving, making it a preferred material for artistic objects like diptychs and pyxides.

Iconography and Symbolism

The pyxis features eight-lobed medallions adorned with figures and animals such as falconers, wrestlers, griffons, peacocks, goats, and other hunted animals.
Scenes include two men collecting falcon eggs, symbolizing the Umayyad legitimization of power.
A depicted figure holding a scepter and flask represents the Umayyad caliph, while another figure portrayed with a fan symbolizes the Abbasids.

Cultural References

The absence of human figures in some parts reflects aniconic representation, a common practice in Islamic art.
Lions featured in the artwork symbolize the victorious Umayyads, asserting their dominance and strength.
A date-palm motif alludes to the lost lands of the East, enriching the narrative and historical reference embedded within the piece.

Historical Implications

Al-Mughira's life ended under suspicious circumstances; following his brother's death, he was executed due to perceived threats to Hisham II's power.

Architectural Commissions in Al-Andalus

Notable Islamic art monuments in Al-Andalus include the Great Mosque of Cordoba and the Alhambra Palace, showcasing the wealth and sophistication of the period's architecture and artistic expression.

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Description

Explore key terms and concepts related to the Pyxis of al-Mughira, a significant artifact from the Umayyad culture. This quiz covers its definition, material, and historical context, including its date of creation. Perfect for those studying Early Europe and Colonial Americas.