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Horn

Title

Horn

Year/Period

Late 19th-early 20th centuries

Region

Iran

Material

Horn (ibex)

Dimension

Object size: L56.0 x W8.5 cm

Accession No.

1999-02784

Collection of

Asian Civilisations Museum

This horn is one of the varieties of objects used by the dervish - an Islamic mystic who practices asceticism. One of the most controversial practices among some Sufi orders is the use of music and dance in rituals to achieve an ecstatic state. For Sufis, the 'sama‘ ritual - a mystical concert and dance - is not performed for entertainment but from a longing for God. In recognising that music could generate tremendous emotional energy, Sufi masters of old restricted these rituals to advanced disciples only.