Italian - Handwasher (Aquamanile) in the Form of a Cheetah - Walters 542434 - Three Quarter

This fearsome-looking cheetah is one of a small group of Islamic animal bronzes made for use as incense burners, pouring vessels (called aquamaniles), and fountain fixtures. Trained cheetahs were favorite hunting animals in the Islamic world, especially at royal courts. This taste was emulated by the Christian kings of Sicily, who featured felines in the decoration of their palaces. Objects like this aquamanile also inspired artists in Germany and other parts of northern Europe, beginning in the 13th century.