Pyxis of al-Mughira
Artist unknown
Ca. 968 CE/357 AH
Ivory
Louvre, OA #4068
The Pyxis of al-Mughira is a carved ivory container crafted in the 10th century within Spain’s al-Andalus region, once home to the Spanish branch of the Umayyad dynasty. This casket was gifted to al-Mughira, the son of Umayyad caliph Abd al-Rahman III, likely during ‘Eid-al-Fitr in the year 968 CE. Its day-to-day purpose may have been to hold various aromatic spices, such as camphor. Among the many vegetal scenes carved onto the pyxis are animals such as falcons and lions, all symbolizing a caliph’s strength and responsibilities. The Pyxis of al-Mughira’s composition, celebratory circumstances and imagery paint the picture that luxurious gift exchanges established the relationship between a caliph and his court by displaying his immeasurable power and wealth.