Beaker with hexafoil and tree-of-life patterns, 9th–10th century AD
Decolourized glass, mould-blown, cut and engraved
(H x Ø)14,7 x 11,2 cm
About the workThe symbols on this beaker probably have more than a merely decorative function. The arrowhead-shaped motifs with scrolled leaf decorations are reminiscent of the tree-of-life motif popular in Iran. There are several possible interpretations for the hexafoils, such as a depiction of the wheels of a celestial chariot or a family coat of arms. The decorative technique is remarkable: the area surrounding the motifs has been ground down so that they are raised and seem to grow out of the wall of the beaker.
AccessionAcquired 1970 with funds of the August Thyssen-Hütte AG
Inventory numberP 1970-4
