Covered Box Inscribed in Arabic Alhamdoulillah (Praise be to God)

China

Ming dynasty (1368-1644), Zhengde period (1506-1521)

The Arabic character on the top of this box means God Willing, Ilhamdouliilah. Bronzes with Arabic inscriptions are not common among the Chinese trade goods found in the Near and Middle East. Scholars therefore believe that such pieces were made for the domestic market, for foreign national Muslims and for the large population of Chinese Muslims.

  • Titles Covered Box Inscribed in Arabic Alhamdoulillah (Praise be to God) (Descriptive)
  • Artist China
  • Medium bronze
  • Dimensions 2 3/16 x 6 1/4 in. Diam. (5.6 x 15.9 cm)
  • Credit Line Museum purchase, 1989.10.1-.2
  • Work Type box with cover
  • Classification Containers
  • On View