KS3

Unit 8, Animating Art. The roundel scenes lend themselves to the creation of a moving image, either independently or in combination.

KS4

Using the ewer as an example of a reflection of the culture of its time, create a similar object to reflect life in Britain today. Illustrate various aspects of popular culture, including modes of entertainment and transport.

Alternatively, take a commission from a member of the elite (of any contemporary culture) and design a vessel with scenes which reflect the occupation, pastimes and values of that person.

KS5

Use the ewer as a starting point when considering how artefacts relate to the time and place in which they were made and to their cultural contexts: for example, do the roundels have anything in common with Islamic miniature painting? How do the genres of contemporary Arabic calligraphy and Islamic engraved metalwork compare to this piece?

History

KS2

Talk through and record what the ewer tells us about medieval life. Think about the different occupations of people connected with the ewer, listing as many as possible; don’t overlook the people “behind the scenes”, such as the epic poet and the inlayer.

KS3

\ This image can be used as a resource for Unit 6, The Achievements of Islamic States 600-1600, and is a useful tool in any study of the Crusades.

It brilliantly illustrates the technical sophistication of the Islamic world and provides a series of snapshots of everyday life.

Describe a day in the life at court, assuming the role of one of the figures, courtier or slave.

Research a piece of metalwork from medieval Europe and compare and contrast the function and decoration of the two.