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Bronze Bird Vessel

The monastery possesses a bronze vessel in the shape of a bird (the wattles suggest a pheasant), with a coursing Saluki for a handle. It is thought to have been made in Iraq, perhaps as early as the eighth century. Scholars are still investigating the history and possible use of such objects.

There is an inscription across the front with early Arabic letter forms. By taking twelve sequential photographs and stitching them together, one can read the curved inscription as a single band.

 The inscription reads, بسم الله  بركة من الله لصاحبه
In the name of God, a blessing from God to its owner

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