



124 • An Important Seljuk Bronze Incense-Burner
Afghanistan, 12th century AD
Size: 28 cm long
There are many incense burners in the form of a lion that have survived from this period. This unique example has two lion heads framing a central head of a gazelle, probably a Saiga, a species that is exclusive to the Steppes, with its characteristic long muzzle. Such objects are a reminder of the importance of perfume within Islamic society, where each family had its own recipe that was handed down from generation to generation.