gilded

Preparation Steps

Original Recipe Text

The model utilizes gilded surfaces for the ornate containers. As described by the Banu Musa in the 9th century (3rd century AH), these drinking vessels were intricate centerpieces for entertainment, often hiding their mechanical complexity behind decorative exteriors (p. 48).

Evidence

"Two ornate brass containers, gilded."

Remarks

The reconstruction of the 'astonishing drinking vessel' (Inventory No. E 1.09) follows the description in the Kitab al-Hiyal. The text mentions that in the original, the container should be covered so that the internal hydraulic functions remain hidden from the viewer (p. 48).