A Short History of the Middle Ages Fourth Edition

Plate 3.3: Water Pitcher in the Shape of an Eagle (796–797). At one time this brass eagle had a handle and
was no doubt used as a water pitcher by a well-to-do Syrian or Iraqi family. Inlaid with silver and copper,
most of which has disappeared, it includes the name of the craftsman who made it (Suleiman), inscribed on
the eagle’s neck along with the date and a blessing (“In the name of Allah merciful, compassionate. Blessing
from Allah.”). Suleiman also named the city where he made the pitcher, but that has rubbed off.