AHA Teaching and Learning Project Teaching and Learning: Visual Literacy and Associative Thought: Zodiac Bowl

Zodiac Bowl

Bowl, late 12th–early 13th century; Seljuq Iranian; Attributed to Central or northern Iran Mina'i ware, composite body, opaque white glaze with gilding, overglaze painting; H. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm), Diam. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm) Purchase, Rogers Fund, and Gift of The Schiff Foundation, 1957 (57.36.4) www.metmuseum.org


This richly decorated bowl includes representations of heavenly planets, mounted horsemen, birds, seated courtiers and musicians. Planets and signs of the zodiac were popular in Iranian iconography.


Warrior Culture         Courtly Culture        Ornamental      


Sorensen's Main Page¦  World History Syllabus¦  European Pictures ¦  Islamic Pictures


Return to Sorensen's cover page |  Return to AHA Teaching and Learning Home Page