Model of the Prophet's house

12th-13th century

This 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.

Earthenware with blue glaze

2 3/4 x 6 1/4 x 4 1/4 in. (6.99 x 15.88 x 10.8 cm)

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

62.31

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

Now on view at the Seattle Art Museum

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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