Goat Pitcher (Aquamanile)

Browse the collection

Artist Unknown

Culture Persian

Culture Iranian

Title Goat Pitcher (Aquamanile)

Date 12th–early 14th century

Medium Stonepaste with luster glaze

Dimensions Overall: 5 3/4 x 2 in. (14.6 x 5.1 cm)

Credit Line Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University

Accession Number 60.58

Share this artwork!

About this Work

The term aquamanile refers to a small pitcher or jug, usually incorporating animal or human figures. This stonepaste example was designed to hold liquids, although its small scale suggests it was probably decorative rather than practical. However, it could have been filled with water through the hole in the back, which would have flowed from its mouth when tipped. Stonepaste, also known as fritware, had been developed in the Middle East by the eleventh century. A fine, hard ceramic, it was used to make thin walls and fine details, and it revolutionized Islamic ceramic production.

Provenance
More Details

Provenance research is ongoing for this and many other items in the Eskenazi Museum of Art permanent collection. For more information about the provenance of this artwork, please contact the department curator with specific questions.

Viewing Information
This artwork is currently on view.

Request this Image
The Eskenazi Museum of Art provides images of its collection, free of charge, upon request. This artwork is under copyright protection. You can request the image and it will be emailed to you when the request is complete.

Cite this Page
"Goat Pitcher (Aquamanile) | Collections Online." Collections Online. Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University, 2025. https://artmuseum.indiana.edu/collections-online/browse/object.php?number=60.58