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Peacock-shaped Hand Washing Device: Illustration from The Book of Knowledge... (recto), 1315
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Peacock-shaped Hand Washing Device: Illustration from The Book of Knowledge... (recto), 1315
Peacock-shaped Hand Washing Device: Illustration from The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices (Automata) of Inb al-Razza al-Jazari (recto), 1315. The Arabic title of this work is Kitab fi marifat al-hiyal al handasiyya (The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices). According to the description of the device illustrated here, the peacock is filled with water: as it flows into the vessel below, it raises a float that opens a door in the section above, causing the little figure to move forward offering soap; as more water flows, a second door will open and another figure will move forward offering a towel. Finally, the dirty water is drawn off by means of a spigot
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Media ID 19640738
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Damascus Mamluk Period Opaque Watercolour And Gold On Paper Syria
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable ingenuity of a peacock-shaped hand washing device, as illustrated in The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices by Inb al-Razza al-Jazari. Created in 1315 during the Mamluk period in Damascus, Syria, this manuscript painting is an exquisite example of opaque watercolor and gold on paper. The intricate mechanism depicted here reveals the functionality of this innovative contraption. The peacock's body serves as a reservoir for water, which flows into a vessel below. As the water level rises, it activates a float that opens a door above, prompting a small figure to move forward and offer soap to those seeking cleanliness. With further influx of water, another door opens and yet another figure emerges with a towel. This ancient invention not only demonstrates advanced engineering but also highlights the importance placed on hygiene even centuries ago. It beautifully captures the intersection between artistry and practicality within Islamic culture. Preserved at The Cleveland Museum of Art, this artwork remains an enigmatic masterpiece from an unknown artist. Its historical significance lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its representation of human innovation throughout time. This photograph print by Heritage Art/Heritage Images allows us to appreciate both the artistic beauty and technical brilliance embodied within this extraordinary mechanical device from medieval Syria.
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