Model of the Prophet's house

Date12th-13th century

Label TextThis model of a seemingly modest courtyard home is known as a "Prophet's house," thought to represent the Prophet Muhammad's dwelling. Standing figures encircle two tables, each of which supports seven spherical objects. The number seven is significant in Islam (seven heavens; seven circuits of the Ka'ba during the hajj), an indication of the auspicious identity of this object.

Object number62.31

Provenance[Khalil Rabenou, Persian Antiquities, New York, NY]; purchased from Mr. Rabenou by Seattle Art Museum (Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection), 1960, accessioned 1962

Credit LineEugene Fuller Memorial Collection

Dimensions2 3/4 x 6 1/4 x 4 1/4 in. (6.99 x 15.88 x 10.8 cm)

MediumEarthenware with blue glaze