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Pyxis, c964 AD, (1881). Creator: M Sullivan
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Pyxis, c964 AD, (1881). Creator: M Sullivan
Pyxis, c964 AD, (1881). Etching of a small cylindrical ivory box made in the mid 10th century, at Medina Azahara, Cordoba, Spain. The carved openwork decoration of the box, which was presumably designed to hold perfumed substances, would have allowed the scent to waft through the holes. According to the inscription round the lid, the pyxis was made at the command of al-Hakam II (915-976), the second Umayyad Caliph of Al-Andalus, probably as a gift for his favourite wife, Subh, to celebrate the birth of their son in the previous year. From " The South Kensington Museum", a book of engraved illustrations, with descriptions, of the works of art in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum in London (formerly known as the South Kensington Museum). [Sampson Low, Marston, Searle and Rivington, London, 1881]
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Media ID 19300685
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
10th Century Boxes Gift Hispano Arabic Ivory Marston Moorish Museum Of Ornamental Art Openwork Pierced Present Pyxis Sampson Low Scent Scented Searle And Rivington South Kensington Museum Sullivan Tenth Century The South Kensington Museum V And A V And A Museum Victoria Albert Museum Victoria And Albert Museum
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the exquisite Pyxis, a small cylindrical ivory box dating back to c964 AD. Created by M Sullivan in 1881, this etching beautifully captures the intricate details of this medieval artifact. The Pyxis was discovered at Medina Azahara in Cordoba, Spain and is believed to have been designed as a container for perfumed substances. The most remarkable feature of this pyxis is its carved openwork decoration, which not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. The delicate pierced design allows the scent of the perfumes inside to waft through the holes, creating an enchanting olfactory experience. According to inscriptions found on the lid, it was commissioned by al-Hakam II, the second Umayyad Caliph of Al-Andalus during his reign from 915-976 AD. It is speculated that he had this pyxis made as a gift for his beloved wife Subh to celebrate their son's birth in the previous year. Displayed in "The South Kensington Museum" collection (now known as Victoria & Albert Museum) in London, this pyxis stands as a testament to Moorish craftsmanship and Hispano-Arabic artistry during the Middle Ages. M Sullivan's detailed engraving brings out every intricacy of this scented treasure and transports us back centuries ago when such artifacts were cherished symbols of love and luxury. This print offers us a glimpse into history and invites us to marvel at both its artistic beauty and cultural significance.
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