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Questions and Answers
What is the name of the artwork?
What is the name of the artwork?
What year does the Pyxis of al-Mughira date to?
What year does the Pyxis of al-Mughira date to?
968
What period is associated with the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
What period is associated with the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
Islamic
Who is the artist of the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
Who is the artist of the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
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What is the patron's relation to the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
What is the patron's relation to the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
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What material is the Pyxis of al-Mughira made from?
What material is the Pyxis of al-Mughira made from?
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Where is the Pyxis of al-Mughira located?
Where is the Pyxis of al-Mughira located?
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What is the function of the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
What is the function of the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
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What does the inscription on the Pyxis of al-Mughira indicate?
What does the inscription on the Pyxis of al-Mughira indicate?
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What are the descriptive terms associated with the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
What are the descriptive terms associated with the Pyxis of al-Mughira?
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How is the Pyxis of al-Mughira related to other cultures?
How is the Pyxis of al-Mughira related to other cultures?
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Study Notes
Pyxis of al-Mughira Overview
- A crafted container known as the Pyxis of al-Mughira, dated to 968 AD.
- Represents a significant artifact from the Islamic period, highlighting cultural practices of that era.
Artistic Context
- Created during the Umayyad dynasty, showcasing the artistic influences of Islamic Spain.
- The artist remains unknown, but may be associated with a patron who is possibly the father of the recipient of the pyxis.
Material and Function
- Made from ivory, an expensive and luxurious material in the period.
- Served as a container for valuable aromatics, indicating the wealth and social status of its owner.
Location and Current Status
- Originated in Muslim Spain, emphasizing the region's historical importance.
- Currently housed in the Louvre Museum, allowing for worldwide access to this significant artifact.
Inscriptions and Cultural Significance
- Features Arabic calligraphic inscriptions that identify the owner and request Allah's blessings.
- The item was intended as a gift for the caliph's younger son, reflecting the traditions of gift-giving within the royal family.
Artistic Decorations
- Decorated with eight medallion scenes depicting leisure activities of the royal court.
- Activities include hunting, falconry, and music, showcasing the lifestyle and interests of the elite.
- Decorative elements feature horror vacui, as well as intricate vegetal and geometric motifs, illustrating the style of art prevalent in that era.
Cross-Cultural Relevance
- Connected to other historical art forms, such as relief sculptures evident in cultures like Chavín and ancient Egypt (e.g., Narmer Palette, Grave Stele of Hegeso).
- Highlights the intertwining of cultural influences across different civilizations and art movements.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the Pyxis of al-Mughira with this quiz. Explore key terms related to its historical context, artists, and materials. Perfect for anyone interested in Islamic art and history.
