If you pick the Freer canteen, you would want to answer the following questions: Why is it shaped the way it is, why is it made of luxury materials, why does it include Christian imagery, and then, at the end of all this, what makes it “Islamic”? What makes it unusual and significant in the history of Islamic art? Do you think it suggests possibilities for peaceful sharing between Christians and Muslims today?
In your essay explain the significance of your piece and the artistic tradition it represents (images, material technique, shape, etc); explain what it was possibly used for; and make an argument about whether it should be classified as “Islamic” art (or not), considering foreign influences. Make sure to refer to controversies surrounding your topic.
