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Ewer with a Feline-Shaped Handle

7th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 451
This ewer demonstrates a continuation of Parthian and Sasanian forms during the early Islamic period in Iran. The lobed forms represent mountains and the vertical lines surmounted by budlike shapes are probably plants. Its overall composition and motifs demonstrate the transition from a figural style to a growing taste for rhythmic repeating patterns. The handle is shaped like an elongated cat peering at the heads of two birds depicted on the rim of the vessel, as though about to pounce.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Ewer with a Feline-Shaped Handle
  • Date: 7th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran
  • Medium: Bronze; cast, chased, and inlaid with copper
  • Dimensions: Max. H. 19 1/8 in. (48.5 cm)
    Max. Diam. 8 1/4 in. (21.1 cm)
  • Classification: Metal
  • Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1947
  • Object Number: 47.100.90
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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