Tray
Unknown Artist
14th century
Medium
Brass; originally inlaid with silver
Dimensions
H. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm) Diam. 17 15/16 in. (45.6 cm)
Classification
Metal
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
Accession Number
91.1.533
Art Historical Context
This elegant 14th-century brass tray, hailing from the Islamic world, exemplifies the exquisite metalwork traditions of the medieval period. Measuring nearly 18 inches in diameter and just over 1 inch in height, it was designed as a shallow serving vessel, likely used affluent households for presenting food, beverages, or offerings during communal gatherings. Its grand scale and refined form reflect the sophistication of Islamic artisans, who crafted such objects as symbols of hospitality and status. Crafted from brass and originally adorned with intricate silver inlays—a technique known as d...