Journal

Major US Museum

Published 06/08/2026

https://www.davidaaron.com/journal-details/34948/notable-sale-the-extraordinary-journey

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Timurid Tomb Element for a Military Commander

A rare 15th-century alabaster Timurid cenotaph acquired by a major North American museum. Dated precisely to 20 Safar 893 AH (4 February 1488 AD), the cenotaph originates from the Timurid cultural sphere, most likely central Iran or Central Asia. The object is carved from a single block of translucent alabaster, a particularly rare material for this period. The object’s ornate relief decoration reflects the height of Timurid aesthetic refinement, particularly akin to examples associated with Afghanistan in the second half of the 15th century.