Qabqab

Qabqab, 19th century
Attribution unknown
Wood, mother-of-pearl
RC761
Image © Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum

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Qabqab, 19th century

These wooden qabqab (bath clogs) are inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The straps, which are missing, were likely made of embroidered velvet.

The qabqabs were designed for their height as they lifted the wearer above the wet and dirty floor, but a personal attendant was needed for support. Their Arabic name, qabqab, derives from the clacking noise they made on the marble floors.

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