Page 83 - Highlights of the Collection
P. 83
Octagonal fountain
and its flooring
Syria, Damascus, 1700-1800
5.09 × 5.48 m, marble, limestone, slate
Intended to provide cooling in summer, this fountain
and associated paving were probably part of a
reception room in a Damascene residence. With Highlights of the Collection
its geometric decoration composed of rosettes,
stars, squares and other polygons, this ensemble
of patterns is typical of Damascene decor from
the Mamluk period to the 19th century when
vegetal motifs appeared. The alternation of white Louvre Abu Dhabi
and coloured stones is an old technique used
by stonemasons.
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