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Tombstone of Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al-Salam ibn Sawwar

9th century

Not on view

The elaborate floriated Kufic inscription contains the name of the deceased, Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al Salam ibn Sawwar, and a profession of faith. The pointed arch supported by columns framing the text is similar in form to mihrabs in mosques, which direct the prayers of the faithful toward Mecca. The scrolling vine at the top is a further development of the vine scrolls of the Byzantine tradition.

Tombstone of Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al-Salam ibn Sawwar, Marble — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Tombstone of Ism‘ail ibn ‘Abd al-Salam ibn Sawwar

Date: 9th century

Geography: Made in Egypt

Medium: Marble

Dimensions: 28 1/8 x 11 x 1 9/16 in. (71.5 x 28 x 4 cm)

Classification: Sculpture

Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (10783)

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.