Inscribed Plaque Safavid dynasty (1501–1722), 16th century

Here we see an inscribed plaque, its origins and creator unknown, crafted from an intricate metallic substance. The design captivates with its symmetrical, vegetal form, echoing the sophisticated arabesques common in Islamic art. The calligraphy, set against a filigree backdrop, demands close inspection. Its curving lines and dense arrangement exemplify a mastery of the medium. The craftsmanship involves an aesthetic choice: the artist treats the script not just as a carrier of meaning but as a key component of the plaque's visual appeal. Within the structuralist perspective, the intertwining of text and form destabilizes the clear boundary between function and ornament. The plaque invites philosophical inquiry. The semiotic interplay suggests deeper cultural codes, emphasizing the non-separable link between the aesthetic and the spiritual. The plaque, with its reflective surface and detailed design, functions as more than mere decoration; it embodies a complex engagement with language, form, and cultural identity.