Tomb of Sultan Berkook

Description

This engraving depicts the tomb of the Mamluk Sultan Barquq. Located within Cairo's renowned "Karatayiye Madrasa and Tomb Complex," the structure was built in the late 14th century and reflects the architectural style of the reign of Sultan Barquq (al-Malik al-Zahir Barquq, 1382-1399), founder of the Burji Mamluk dynasty. The engraving displays elements characteristic of Mamluk art, such as geometric ornamentation, Kufic script bands, muqarnas arches, and two-tone stonework, rendered with great finesse. The artist imbues the scene with both a historical and religious atmosphere through the figures visiting the tomb's interior. This engraving is a product of the growing interest in "Islamic architecture and orientalist archaeology" that emerged in Europe in the late 19th century. Cairo's historical buildings, especially those from the Mamluk period, were seen as a source of inspiration by both artists and architects during this period.