Vase with Inscriptions

Vase with tall, round, slightly flared neck; the pear-shaped body stands on a tall footring. The neck is engraved with three bands: at the top, a band of kufic script set against a foliated scroll; a second band consisting of a twined rope motif; and on the ring of the neck, a third band of lozenges alternating with roundels. The body bears a broad band of fine thuluth calligraphy punctuated by three large decorative roundels filled with an arabesque motif. Above and below the calligraphy band are arabesque motifs. On the foot ring is an engraved band consisting of an angular, braided rope motif. Remnants of silver inlay can be found on the neck ring and body of the vase. The inscription on this vase reveals that it was made for an amir kabir, or Great Emir, of Sultan Hasan (ruled 1347-51 and 1354-61). Up until 1352 the title of amir kabir was given to all senior Mamluk amirs, or freed slaves who were part of the ruling military elite. After that time, the term was reserved for the commander in chief of the army. Since the reigns of Sultan Hasan span this transition, this piece may have been made for the commander in chief but also could have been made for any senior amir. Notes from the Glory and Prosperity exhibition, Feb - June 2002.