A Treasure of the Andalusian Past: The Nasrid Pyxis

Al-Andalus, the Arabic name for Muslim-ruled Spain and Portugal from the beginning of the 8th century CE to the late 15th century CE (late 1st century AH to the late 9th century AH), was the epicentre of culture and creativity and was responsible for producing some of the most outstanding artistic and intellectual traditions. The Iberian Peninsula underwent a transformation with the arrival of the Arab-Berber forces in 711 CE and this gave rise to a flourishing civilisation that became the vital link connecting Africa, Europe, and the Islamic East.

The Rise and Height of Al-Andalus

In the next centuries, cities like Cordoba, Seville, and Granada in Al-Andalus flourished as hubs of learning, art and trade, well-known for their libraries, gardens, architecture, and courtly life. Muslims, Christians, Jews and various other communities coexisted together in a vibrant and shared cultural landscape. This greatly allowed for scientific knowledge, philosophical thoughts, and artistic innovations to flow across geographical boundaries.

The Great Mosque of Cordoba's grand design and the detailed elegance of the Nasrid Palaces within the Alhambra complex in Granada stand as the lasting examples of this extraordinary chapter in both Islamic and European history.

Everyday Luxury in the Nasrid Court

Among the many treasures of Al-Andalus, small luxury objects offer an interesting glimpse into the daily lives of the royals and the court elite. One such item is this Nasrid pyxis from the 8th century AH/14th century CE. This compact, cylindrical container was used to store cosmetics, jewellery, perfume or medicines. 

This small artefact is quite significant because it is one of the few known examples of Nasrid metalwork, highlighting the artistic excellence of this period in Granada. Delicately inlaid with silver, the copper container is covered in intricate geometric designs on the surface with eight-pointed stars, interlaced palmettes, and chevron friezes on the upper and lower part of the box. These motifs reflect how artisans of Al-Andalus employed precise geometry and recurring patterns to produce a rhythmic sense of order, infusing such objects with beauty and sophistication.

Symbols of Prestige and Refinement

During the Islamic rule in Al-Andalus, perfume and cosmetic containers played a significant role in courtly rituals. Their usage in private chambers reflected refined tastes and a lifestyle where daily routines were elevated by artistically decorated objects. Crafted in royal workshops, pyxides were typically presented to or commissioned by the elite as courtly gifts or reserved only for high-ranking individuals. Making these refined objects required exceptional craftsmanship and access to luxury materials, demonstrating the economic and cultural wealth of the Nasrid court. Beyond their functional role, such pieces symbolised status, elegance, and the refinement of the time.

Remnants of the Past

In 1492, when Muslim rule ended in Spain after the Christian conquest of Granada, many Andalusians were forcefully exiled from their lands. Despite this, the artistic legacy of Islamic craftsmanship continued to thrive in the region, leaving a profound impact on Spanish and European art for centuries.

The Nasrid pyxis, through its design and elegant form, embodies the spirit of a civilisation where intellect, art, and life were deeply connected. Today, it still holds the lingering significance of Al-Andalus' in the history of the Islamic world.

Dr. Mounia Chekhab Abudaya, Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs, Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)

Discover More Objects from Al-Andalus

Visit the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) to explore the Nasrid Pyxis and more such exquisite objects that offer a glimpse into the opulent and lively heritage of the region.