Polychrome Marble Inlaid Fountain
Datec. 1800-1850
PeriodOttoman
MediumMarble, stone inlay, mother-of-pearl
DimensionsOverall: 22 7/8 x 48 1/2 in. (58.1 x 123.2cm)
ClassificationsStonework
Credit LineCourtesy of the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art
Object number41.1a-b
DescriptionThis octagonal, marble fountain was assembled from historic and custom-made marble panels. Like every surface of an affluent Damascene home, the fountain is adorned in intricate patterns of geometric forms and floral motifs. The technique used to create these designs is called opus sectile, or “stone mosaic.” The marble is inlaid with glimmering mother-of-pearl, gilding, and multi-colored stones, a style popular in Damascus beginning in the mid-1700s. The fountain occupies the 'ataba — or antechamber — of the Ottoman Gallery at Shangri La, created from architectural elements of a qa’a, or reception hall of a Damascus home. The ‘ataba is entered from the courtyard. Residents and visitors would enjoy the bubbling fountain from the adjacent, raised seating area called the tazar.
On View
On viewCollections
17th century
17th century
18th - 19th century
19th-20th century
19th-20th century
One of a set/One of a set
