The orthodox prohibition against depiction of living things in Islam was not always adhered to in secular settings, as can be seen here. A typical example of metalwork from Fars, Iran, this basin features a band of cursive inscriptions, and medallions containing scenes of an enthroned figure flanked by attendants. The inscription reads: "Glory to our Lord, the greatest Sultan, the Learned, the Just, the Sultan of Sultans of the Arabs and Persians, the Triumphant, the Master who curbs Nations".
