Handcarved dumbbells from the Zurkhaneh (House of Strength)

NameDumbbells

CultureIslamic

DateMid-20th century

Place madeIran, South Asia, Asia

MediumEbony wood

Dimensions20 1/2 × 6 5/16 × 6 5/16 in. (52 × 16 × 16 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, gift of Robert and Luba Staller, A.2016.50.2ab

Object numberA.2016.50.2ab

DescriptionPair of handcarved eboney dumbbells. Body of dumbbell has vertical ridges which are interupted by short diagonal ridges right before the base. Each dumbbell has a handle at one end. They are heavy, hand carved from one solid piece of wood. One (a) is in perfect condition. The other (b) has a long natural crack.