Barcelona, Granada and Sevilla

The Alhambra Museum in Granada, Spain, houses an extensive collection of artifacts that reflect the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the Nasrid period. Among its notable items are:

Capitals:
The museum features a variety of marble capitals, which are the decorated tops of columns. These capitals showcase intricate carvings and designs characteristic of Islamic art from the Nasrid era (13th to 15th centuries). They once adorned the architectural elements of the Alhambra palaces, contributing to the aesthetic grandeur of the complex.

Vases:
A highlight of the museum’s collection is the “Vase of the Gazelles,” one of the renowned Alhambra vases. These large Hispano-Moresque ceramics date back to the late 14th or early 15th century. The Vase of the Gazelles stands approximately 135 centimeters tall and is adorned with images of gazelles and intricate arabesque patterns in cobalt blue, white, and gold. These vases were likely decorative pieces displayed within the palatial rooms. 

Statuary:
While the Alhambra’s Islamic artistic tradition typically emphasizes non-figurative art, the museum does possess some marble sculptures. Notably, it houses a marble lion that once formed part of a fountain in the Maristan, a hospital established during the Nasrid period. This piece dates back to the 14th century and exemplifies the artistic conventions of the time. 

These artifacts collectively offer insight into the sophisticated artistry and cultural expressions of the Nasrid dynasty, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the historical splendor of the Alhambra.Read more