Tombstone of Abu Sa'd ibn Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Hasan Karwaih 1125 - 1175

This intricately carved sandstone tombstone, dated between 1125 and 1175, was created by Ahmad ibn Muhammad Astak and commemorates Abu Sa'd ibn Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Hasan Karwaih. The tombstone, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a central rectangular panel within a larger frame, both filled with exquisite Kufic inscriptions. This style of calligraphy, characterized by its angular and geometric forms, was prevalent in Islamic art of this period. The intricate floral and geometric designs within the inscriptions enhance the beauty and complexity of the artwork.