Possibly Konya, Turkey (Seljuq sultanate of Rum, 1077–1377)
Late 13th century
Cast bronze, chased and inlaid with silver
Diameter: 19.4 cm (base), Height: 20.4 cm
The sides of this candlestick feature an enthroned central figure drinking wine, flanked by attendants holding fruit. Such images of haloed royal figures date back thousands of years to pre-Islamic Iran. The candlestick’s inscription and decorative inlay suggest it was a courtly object, perhaps used at feasts. Its owner is identified as Khass Beg, an ‘intimate of the royal presence’.